IT rained on Bury's big parade but even the atrocious weather couldn't dampen the spirits of the players or the fans.

Around 2,000 hardy souls braved the tea-time torrent on Wednesday (May 7) to welcome their heroes' open top bus to Bury Town Hall and the admiration was mutual.

"What can you say about these people," enthused central defender Chris Lucketti. "They have been fantastic all season and here they are again, standing in the pouring rain, cheering their hearts out. We are as proud of them as they are of us."

Each Bury player was cheered in turn as they took their bow on the balcony. Earlier, the Mayor of Bury Coun Trevor Holt had welcomed them to their "annual visit".

"I think that some of these players know their way around the town hall better than we do," he quipped in reference to two previous receptions after Wembley 1995 and promotion 1996.

"We are delighted to have you back and hope you make it three next season. What you have achieved is nothing short of fantastic."

Coun Holt trod warily as he mentioned Bolton Wanderers' achievements - to loud booing - and those of Radcliffe Boro, Wigan and Manchester United.

"It has been a fantastic season for North West clubs but Bury's achievements top the lot," he concluded.

Responding on behalf of the club, chairman Terry Robinson said he and the players greatly appreciated the fact that the council held them in such high regard. He added that he, too, hoped to be back next May!

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.