After 48 long years of hurt, Barrow AFC made their peace with non-league football and put their previous troubles behind them to return to the Football League.
It has been a long road to redemption for the Bluebirds - a club that has certainly been through the mill over the years.
There have been some highs, their two FA Trophy victories - one under legendary manager Ray Wilkie - and promotions from the Conference North particular highlights.
This year is another for celebration, a year to look back on with fondness and a year to remember for the people of Cumbria.
Ian Evatt’s name will be forever ingrained in the DNA at Holker Street as the man that gave Barrow back their identity.
From turning a relegation-threatened outfit into National League champions, all within a two-season time frame, just shows how important a vision is.
His achievement with the Bluebirds understandably did not go unnoticed, as he picked up the Manager of the Year award at the National Game awards.
This, alongside seeing one of his star players - John Rooney - also recognised for his outstanding contributions to their rise to the EFL, with the Player of the Year accolade.
The second name will always bear heavy on the shoulders of any individual. With Manchester United’s and England’s all-time top scorer as your older brother, you’ll always have to make your own path.
The 29-year-old has certainly done that this season, his 17 strikes alongside 20-goal, golden-boot-winning teammate Scott Quigley paved the way for promotion.
There will be a tinge of sadness however in this football love story; the man behind the master plan has gone.
Evatt said his goodbyes after promotion was confirmed, choosing to take over at now-fellow Sky Bet League Two side Bolton Wanderers.
The new man in the hot seat is a man that has played at the highest level in the English game, and also managed to make an appearance for the Three Lions during his playing days - David Dunn.
After briefly tasting first-team management in 2016 with Oldham Athletic, Dunn has been waiting for the right opportunity for get back into the hot seat.
Next season in League Two promises to be an interesting one, and no doubt the new boys on the block will be keen to impress.
To listen to an exclusive interview with new Barrow AFC boss David Dunn click on the Sky Bet League One Play-Off Final Podcast link below!
