David Flitcroft was delighted hard work paid off in the end as Bury sealed promotion back to Sky Bet League 1 with a 1-0 victory over Tranmere Rovers.
Tom Soares' second-half goal proved the difference against an already-relegated Rovers side that fought hard at Prenton Park for no reward.And with Southend United losing at Morecambe it meant the Shakers secured the third automatic promotion spot and parked wild scenes amongst the fans and to the obvious delight of their manager.
"It's a massive achievement for the football club," said Flitcroft.
"Persistence, graft, a willingness, an insatiable appetite to keep going. When at times this season we've looked dead and buried we've driven them through. The lads are just a credit to themselves a credit to the fans and a credit to the club.
"Sixteen months ago we were 23rd in the league and that rise has been pretty impressive but the chairman's backed it and the players have backed it and we're a club as one.
"I'm really proud of the players, proud of my staff and proud of the fans and everyone connected with the club because we're trying to go in the right direction and stabilise a football club that was all over the show 16 months ago. Absolutely delighted."