IT wasn't just Gazza who was in tears! Thousands of Clarets fans were left wondering what might have been after Burnley's promotion rollercoaster hit the buffers.

The high of top scorer Gareth Taylor's goal in a 1-0 home win over Crystal Palace on the final day of the season counted for nothing when news of Norwich's 2-0 victory over Stockport filtered through to Turf Moor.

Some fans said they were off to drown their sorrows after the club lost out by the narrowest of margins -- one goal-- while others kept their spirits high with hopes for success next season.

Burnley butcher Neil Sledding was forced to admit his "lucky lunchbox" had failed the team in their final hour.

The manager of Haffner's Butchers in Keirby Walk, Burnley, had been using the Bertie Bee butty box all week in the hope it would bring the team some extra magic.

He said: "I think it's a not such a lucky lunchbox. I'll have to change it for something different this next season. We went to the match and I thought they gave it everything.

"They just weren't good enough at the end of the day. Fair play to the players though. I thought they tried to the last minute."

Fan Christian Catlow, 20, of Scott Park Road, Burnley, said: "I'm gutted. But I don't think they would have a chance if they had got into the play-offs."

Andrew Smith, 39, of Bury Road, Haslingden, said: "We were in the top six all season apart from three days.

"It's sad it came down to goal difference but that's life. It was a brilliant match and the team couldn't have done any better."

Melanie Briggs, of Loveclough, Rossendale, said: "I'm disappointed but I think it was perhaps early days. Stan's done a great job."

Richard Wilkinson, of Clayton-le-Momors, said: "They left it a bit late.

"If they had got through I don't think they would have had a chance."

Usman Maseen, 18, of Duke Bar, said: "They shouldn't have lost to Gillingham.

"At the start they had a chance but messed up towards the end. Next year they will be on the top."

Burnley Mayor Jack Alston said: "I'm sorry they didn't make it but it's all in the game. There's always next time.

"They've done well this season and shouldn't be too dissatisfied. I wish them all the best."

Burnley MP Peter Pike said: "This has been their best season for 25 years. And we have more points than we've ever had. We now look forward to next year."