THE town of Accrington is celebrating following the club's historic promotion to League One for the first time.

Stanley secured promotion with a 2-0 victory at home to Yeovil Town on Tuesday night thanks to two goals from Billy Kee.

Hyndburn Council has confirmed it would be in talks with Stanley about an open top bus celebration to mark the achievement.

The achievement came exactly 130 years on from the day the club in its original form became founder members of the Football League.

Hyndburn MP Graham Jones said: "What Accrington Stanley have done is fantastic, a big congratulations to the players and everyone involved at the club.

"They've put Accrington up in lights.

"Football clubs are an integral part of a community and town and they have a huge role to play in promoting the area they represent.

"Stanley have done wonderfully over the past few years, and the promotion is testament to that."

The club in its original form resigned from the League in 1962 amid financial difficulties, reforming in 1968 and working their way up the non-league ladder to return as Conference champions in 2006.

Former Stanley player, England cricketer, and now Sky Sports pundit David 'Bumble' Lloyd praised the effort of everyone involved.

He said: "It is absolutely terrific, it was magnificent to see.

"There were so many young people around, which was wonderful to see.

"The ground was packed, it was a wonderful night.

"Before the ground talking to fans there were a few nerves, but the players showed none of that and performed great.

"Football gives the community a real lift.

"Accrington isn't the most wealthy of areas but the club's success gives you something to put your hat on.

"It's really great for East Lancashire to be a hot bed of sporting and football success."

Cllr Miles Parkinson, council leader, said they are in talks about an open bus celebration and more would be revealed when plans are finalised.

He said: "This is wonderful news, we’re tremendously proud of Accrington Stanley and our congratulations go to Andy Holt, John Coleman and all the players and staff who have had an incredible season, culminating in their promotion to League One.

"It’s been a gripping season and there’s been a buzz around the Wham stadium and a feel-good factor which has rippled out right throughout the town."

Emma Gilmartin, landlady at The Crown pub in Whalley Road, a short walk from the ground, said she is delighted for the club.

She said: "It's just fantastic, we used to work for the club for six years.

"It's going to be great for everyone around the town.

"They nearly managed it a few years ago, so it's great they've managed it now.

"We're so happy it's happened for John Coleman especially, he comes in here for a drink with some of the staff and players."

Peter Leatham, chairman of the official Accrington Stanley supporters club, said: "It was absolutely brilliant.

"The team were superb on the pitch and the fans were superb off it.

"It is everything that the club deserves.

"We just need to savour the moment and be ready to go again next year.

"It should mean there are some far bigger crowds around Accrington next year."