AFTER witnessing his side secure promotion to the Blue Square Premier, Nick Holmes has praised the City supporters for turning out in force to cheer his side to victory.

More than 1,000 Whites fans were celebrating after their team had won 1-0 thanks to a late goal by Matt Tubbs.

"The supporters were fantastic," said Holmes. "But they've been brilliant all season."

The Salisbury manager said he would like to place on record his thanks to everyone at the club who had made this a season to remember.

As well as securing back-to-back promotions, City reached the quarter-finals of the FA Trophy (going out to eventual winners Stevenage Borough) and the second round of the FA Cup, where they held Nottingham Forest to a draw before bowing out in a replay at the City Ground.

"The players have done their bit, but so has everyone here behind the scenes - especially the directors, the management team, the physios, everyone in the office and all those who help out on match days. Thanks to you all - we couldn't have done it without you."

Despite a night of celebration, Holmes and player-coach Tommy Widdrington were back at work this morning planning their first season in the top tier of non-league football.