IT was a day to celebrate as the jubilant promotion winning Shakers were feted in Bury last Sunday.

To the cheers of fans the team and their connections travelled from the Gigg Lane ground through the centre of the town to Bury Town Hall for a grand civic reception.

Well deserved adulation was poured on them and the golden boys of the moment enjoyed the well earned heady scent of success.

The Mayor and other civic dignitaries welcomed them to the town hall and amongst the fervent supporters were the Rector of Bury, Canon Reg Smith, and Leader of the Council Councillor John Byrne - the official reception was keen supporter Councillor Byrne's idea.

The sun shone on the parade and fans crowded the gardens outside the town hall where blossoming cherry trees echoed the blossoming of Bury's fortunes.

A year ago there was misery for fans and players alike when the Shakers lost a Wembley play off at Chesterfield but what a difference a year can make!

After appearing on the balcony from the town hall's main committee room the players were entertained in royal style in the Elizabethan Suite where they, and invited guests, enjoyed celebration food and drinks.

Bury Journal's Harry Smith commented that the whole event was well worthwhile for the team and the town's morale and he congratulates Councillor Byrne on being the catalyst in its organisation.

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