ACCRINGTON Stanley have received a plaque and a huge thank you' following their 2-2 draw with Bury - for saving the Gigg Lane club from going bust.

Back in 2001 the Shakers were in financial meltdown, staring at the abyss and balancing on the brink of going out of business.

Various clubs helped them in their plight, but it was Stanley's contribution, organising a benefit match which raised £8,000, that is remembered the most.

Bury press officer Gordon Sorfleet said: "Back in 2001 we were in deep trouble and we were helped by lots of clubs. We had a bucket collection at one of Manchester United's European games, but what Accrington Stanley did outshone everything.

"It was a fantastic gesture, and for a club like that to do something like that was just brilliant."

Stanley chairman Eric Whalley organised the match and was presented with the plaque, called "Thank You Accy", before the League Two game kicked off.

Mr Sorfleet added: "At the time there was a lot of things written and said about the gesture, but we've never had a proper chance to say thank you. We wanted to wait until Accrington were back in the league so it could be done properly.

"It's heartfelt. It means something and, by god, this club and those that come after us must never forget what Accrington did for us that night."