In memorable scenes, hundreds of people lined Long Causeway and Cathedral Square to greet the players as they rounded off their storming season with an open-top bus ride to the town hall.

Supporters young and old turned out to mark the side's achievement, with many confident the current squad can go on to greater things in League One.

Paul English (43), a Posh fan for 32 years from Alconbury Weston, said: "We have come second in the league playing entertaining football, and after ten years of doom and gloom, it's great.

Browse and buy photo reprints:
» Posh promotion parade - search for 'Posh celebrations 08'
----------------------------------

"I think we can do well in the higher division and go straight up.
"We have got nothing to be scared of and this time next year we could be celebrating another promotion."

Nick Kouflis (17) from Gunthorpe, Peterborough, had only missed five games home and away this season.

He said: "It's been worth it. The team has done us proud. The whole team has done well and I wanted to be here today to give them my support.

"I have been waiting for a day like today for ages."

Cicely Winterton (72), a Posh fan for 54 years, added: "I am absolutely delighted to be here because I have been supporting them for such a long time.

"We have had some rough times, but today is fantastic."

After the bus ride to the town hall, the players entered to a medley of music from The Lightyears band from Voyager School, including a rousing rendition of the recently released single Posh We Are.

They then went out on to the front steps of the building, where hundreds had gathered to continue the party.

Posh manager Darren Ferguson paid tribute to the fans.
He said: "It's absolutely fantastic.

"I would like to thank the mayor and the council for organising a day like today, which is what it's all about. For the fans to turn out like this is great for us.

"Peterborough is an up-and-coming city with a good catchment area, and we have got to keep playing good football so the crowds come back next season."

Leading goal scorer Aaron Mclean added: "The fans have been magnificent all season and for them to come out and show their appreciation is nice."
Mayor of Peterborough, Cllr Marion Todd, said a successful team went hand-in-hand with a successful city.

She said: "We are a growing city and this will bring every part of the community together.

"It's the start of a new beginning for Peterborough and for Peterborough United. Hopefully we will grow together."

Don't miss Bank Holiday Monday's Evening Telegraph for you FREE 12-page promotion party picture special. In Wednesday's Evening Telegraph there's a FREE 32-page Souvenir supplement commemorating Posh's promotion season.