Rochdale Football Club celebrate promotion with open top bus parade and civic reception

Rochdale Football Club parade and civic reception

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Fans lined the streets from Spotland Stadium to The Esplande in Rochdale Town Centre this evening (Tuesday 6 May) to watch as Rochdale Football Club celebrated promotion with a parade in an open top bus before attending a civic reception at the Town Hall.

Celebrations started at Spotland and once at the Town Hall, hundreds of fans welcomed the team by singing their hearts out and creating an atmosphere they will never forget.

The rain held off as the team made their way to the balcony of Rochdale Town Hall, where medals were presented and speeches made to the fans.

Players, officials and special guests made their way into the Great Hall for a civic reception, which included a special 15-minute season highlight video.

Keith Hill was described as “the most successful manager at Rochdale Football Club” as well as being described as the team's “jewel in the crown”.

Speaking about his team’s success, manager Keith Hill said: “This is a massive success but I am not responsible. The team is 100% responsible. We all have the same dreams and the same aspirations and that is what is special. This is a tremendous feat for us and it is something that will stay with my family and my history forever.”

Club Chairman, Chris Dunphy added: “It is nice to know how much our team means to people and what our team has done for this town.”

Mayor of Rochdale Peter Rush said: “I am very proud to be here this evening and the atmosphere outside was fantastic. You deserve the reception you got and I am a very proud man to welcome you all here.”

Leader of the Council, Councillor Colin Lambert continued the praise for the team and added: “This is about the club, the players and the families of the players. You have made this borough proud and you are fantastic role models for the children of this borough. Together we are going to drive this borough forward because you have been fantastic.”

The fans were also thanked by the players with team captain Peter Cavanagh addressing them and thanking them for their continued support throughout the season.