BURY FC’s football stars were given a heroes’ return after winning automatic promotion to League One.

The celebration welcome was held at The Rock shopping centre.

The Shakers arrived on an open-top bus at 3pm.

Fans congregated at St John’s Square, outside Debenhams and Marks and Spencer. The bus was a vintage 1969 double decker from Greater Manchester Transport Society.

The Mayor of Bury, Councillor John Byrne, publicly congratulated the team for their efforts, before handing the microphone to Bury FC caretaker manager Richie Barker and the players to address the fans.

The players and staff then attended a private civic reception at Bury Town Hall prior to their public celebration at The Rock.

Council leader Bob Bibby said: “Automatic promotion is a fantastic achievement for Bury. It’s even more impressive when achieved away from home, playing the one-time runaway leaders.”

Peter Young, commercial manager at Bury FC, said: “This season has been fantastic for Bury FC and it is fitting that we celebrate with our fans who have played such an enormous part in our success."

Bury Council is currently the club’s main sponsor.