THOUSANDS have signed a petition calling for Bury FC to be reinstated in the Football League.

The Shakers had their membership withdrawn by the EFL on Tuesday evening after a takeover bid for the historic club collapsed.

Fans have since condemned the league’s actions and claims have been made that alternative bids, most notably from SJ Global, were unfairly rejected or misinterpreted.

Now, a petition created by supporter Deborah Warrington has called for the EFL to consider a reported offer from the international consortium.

So far, it has been signed by more than 10,000 people in seven hours.

The petition reads: "Calling all football supporters.

"Bury FC have had 1000s of messages of support. We need your help more than ever.

"The EFL need to consider the SJ Global bid. The initial offer was in before the deadline, the money is transferred as promised, and this does not need to go to court. The EFL messed up and did not explore all avenues and incorrectly thought the bid had been withdrawn.

"Please sign this petition and contact your own club and supporters association and ask them to provide messages of support for Bury FC and pressure the EFL."

It comes as the EFL were reported to be holding a board meeting at midday.

Bury North MP James Frith tweeted: "EFL board meeting with Bury on the agenda - proposed sale to an international consortium as I understand it. Details to follow.

"I hope EFL will reconsider their decision and revoke the expulsion."

SJ Global have stated their intention to appeal the league’s decision not to grant them an extension on Tuesday. However, EFL chief Debbie Jevans has said there is no available avenue in which to do so.

She added that “everything possible” had been done to prevent Bury being expelled from the league.

To view the petition, visit www.change.org/p/debbie-jevans-efl-efl-bring-back-bury-fc.