THOUSANDS of Darlington fans turned out to celebrate with their heroes last night.

Buy match and fan photos from Darlington's trip to Wembley and market square celebrations

Jubilant supporters gathered in the town’s market place as the team paraded the FA Trophy, won on Saturday in dramatic style against Mansfield Town at Wembley.

Despite the joy, though, the homecoming was a bittersweet moment for striker Chris Senior, scorer of the last-gasp goal, but who was released by the club only minutes before they took to the stage.

Speaking to the crowd about his strike, he said: “Those chances might come along once in your career, but sometimes it counts for nothing, which it has about an hour ago.”

Despite this, the mood remained triumphant as the players acknowledged their long-suffering fans.

In a rallying cry, club chairman Raj Singh said: “Thank you for the brilliant turnout.

We’ve done the town proud, let’s build on this now.”

Darlington mayor Brian Thistlethwaite, who oversaw proceedings, which were organised by Darlington Borough Council and sponsored by Teesside University, said: “What a magnificent turnout.”

Club captain Ian Miller paid tribute to the fans, saying: “It’s a boyhood dream. We’ve had a torrid couple of years, but this was a highlight.

“There might have been more Stags (Mansfield fans) at Wembley, but I could hear more black and white fans out there.”

On leaving the market place, the players moved to a civic reception at the Dolphin Centre with dignitaries from across the borough.

Welcoming the players was incoming leader of Darlington council Councillor Bill Dixon.

He said: “I do not know a great deal about football, but I know you left it late.

“Seriously, though, well done. I think what happened out there shows what Darlington can do at its best.

“You have brought a real lot of pride and pleasure to the people of this town.

“There cannot now be an argument about why the people will not support the football team after that kind of result.”

Fans were equally as enthusiastic.

Making reference to the trophy being broken during celebrations at Wembley on Saturday, Stan Stannard said: “Good to see the lads, and the trophy was fixed.”

Jamie Russell said: “Brilliant turnout for Darlington. It was good to see the team.”

David Walker said he expected to see a better attendance at games as a result. He said: “I’ve put my name down for a season ticket.”

Maureen Cosgrove said she was still elated from Saturday, and added: “They were wicked – Wembley was the best. Darlington’s the best. All the fans are here to celebrate. We love you Darlo.”