BURY have set the first division as their next target.

The Shakers, celebrating their first promotion in 11 years, which took them into the second, believe they could hold their own one division behind the Premiership - if they can get there.

Manager Stan Ternant believes he is four players short of a squad which can be competitive in division two next season and can expect funds to beef up his playing strength over the summer.

"The ambition for this club is the first division," declared the manager. "Our chairman Terry Robinson and major shareholder Hugh Eaves believe we could live in the first, but I need to bring in players to improve the quality of our squad."

Bury left on a midnight flight to Spain as a treat for winning promotion after last night's civic reception and player of the season awards.

Chris Luketti was runaway winner of the fans' vote as top player for the second successive season, followed by Michael Jackson in second and Dean West third.

Ternant meanwhile insists that he does not want to sell any of his current squad to fund incoming transfers and will welcome a pledge from Mr Eaves that finances will be made available during the summer.

The Shakers have offered new contracts to a number of players including goalkeepers Gary Kelly and Lee Bracey, midfielders Lenny Johnrose, Tony Rigby and Ian Hughes and veteran striker Mark Carter.

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