Wanderers fan and Mayor of Bolton, Cllr John Walsh said: "This was the most important match for Bolton Wanderers for many years.

"The win has put us back on the footballing map, and Bolton on the world map. I can't put a value on what it means but the problems of relegation just do not bear thinking about.'

The mayor, who was enjoying a celebratory glass of champagne in the boardroom, added: "The atmosphere was electric and it is a huge relief.

"It was a nerve wracking 90 minutes but I am elated that I can pass on to my successor Cllr Cliff Morris, a Premiership football club."