FROM tiny tots to well-seasoned supporters, Burton Albion's loyal army of followers turned out in force to pay tribute to their conquering heroes.

Thousands of Brewers fans gathered in the town's streets on Saturday to cheer their heroes as they toured the town in two open-top buses.

The team's journey, from the town hall, in King Edward Place, to the Brewers' home ground, the Pirelli Stadium, was just part of a day of celebration to mark the club's promotion to the Football League.

At the front of the crowd eagerly waiting outside the town hall were Phil Lynch, 53, and his 14-year-old daughter, Chloe.

The pair, of Harbin Road, Walton-on-Trent, were among the supporters who watched as Burton lost to Torquay United six days earlier.

Despite the defeat, the team still claimed automatic promotion to League Two as rivals Cambridge could only draw.

Mr Lynch said: "The atmosphere was fantastic at Torquay – but it is absolutely brilliant here!

"We're season ticket holders and go to every match because Burton Albion are such a wonderful team and I'm so pleased for them that they've won promotion."

Paul Redfern, 48, of Swannington Street, Burton, who was joined in the crowd by son Mark, 14, said: "We're celebrating a momentous moment and it really doesn't get any better than this."

And lifelong supporter Eric Worth, 59, of Masefield Crescent, said: "I've been watching them since I was a kid and this is a real achievement, both for the players and the town."

The day kicked off at 9.30am, as the Brewers, champions of the Blue Square Premier league, boarded their buses to travel to the town hall, where they were greeted by East Staffordshire's Mayor, Councillor Liz Staples.

Burton caretaker manager Roy McFarland, who has confirmed he will not be managing the club next season, said the day would always be a wonderful memory for the players.

The outgoing temporary boss took the time to shake hands with as many supporters as possible outside Burton Town Hall.

He said: "Feelings have been high during these celebrations, as they have been for the past week, and this is recognition for all the players' hard work this season."

Defender Aaron Webster, who celebrated his testimonial last week after giving more than 10 years of service to the club, said: "The bus tour has been brilliant because it is a chance to share our joy with the fans.

"This is probably one of the best weeks of my life because everything, the title, my testimonial, the bus tour, has come together perfectly."

Club captain Darren Stride said: "It's great to see how the club has progressed over the last few years because the team has great spirit and I hope it continues next season."