A LONDON-born `Irishman' was crowned Stockport County's local hero as the Hatters showed Greater Manchester how to party at a civic reception to mark the team's promotion to Division One.

Manager Jim Gannon, who was born in Southwark but raised in Dundalk, triggered euphoric applause from thousands of fans when he appeared with his baby daughter Caitlin on the Town Hall balcony.

The A6 was closed and the town came to a standstill as a real homecoming was staged for the team - unlike Manchester United who missed out despite their double success.

Each player involved in the 3-2 play-off final win over Rochdale raised the trophy, but the crowd went mad for Gannon, who also played for the club for 10 years. Two years ago the club was heading for non-league football.

He said: "We have had fantastic support. I know as a player myself that the noise and backing from fans lifts you - it can give players extra energy."

For chairman Norman Beverley, who attended his first County game in 1959, it was an unforgettable evening. He said: "I think my dad took me to see County as a punishment once and I've been a fan ever since!"

The players rode from Edgeley Park to the town centre in an open top bus. The Mayor of Stockport, Coun Pam King, said: "The civic reception is the least we could do for the club which proudly takes Stockport's name all over the UK."
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