CHRIS Billy proved he has finally won over the fans who used to boo him by picking up the Bury FC player of the year award - then saying Chris Swailes ought to have won writes Steve Canavan

The hard-working midfielder couldn't hide his delight at scooping the prize after enduring almost constant criticism from the terraces during the last two seasons.

This season, however, he has played well consistently in midfield and at right back and when he was announced as the winner at a packed Gigg Lane social club last night a huge cheer erupted from the fans.

"I'm delighted to get it but I'm also a bit surprised because I thought Swoz (Chris Swailes) would win it," said Billy. "He's been a rock for us all season. Sam Collins has been out for a while now and he's had a lot of young lads playing next to him but he's been superb all the way through.

"I'm pleased with the season I've had. I've played in quite a few different positions. Midfield's my favourite because you're always involved but I don't mind where I am as long as I'm doing my bit for the team."

Billy admitted he had been the subject of a bit of mickey-taking from his team-mates though because of his goal tally this year - zero!

Joked

"They've been taking the mickey because even Michael Nelson scored and he only played two games!" joked Billy.

"In the last game at Brentford those who were there probably noticed I was trying to get on the end of every cross to get on the scoresheet but it just didn't happen."

Chris Swailes wasn't too disappointed to miss out. As well as being runner up to Billy in the main category, he also picked up the inaugral Players' Player of the Year award.

Best goal went to Ady Littlejohn for his spectacular point-saving scissor kick against Notts Cunty.

Goalkeeper Paddy Kenny - last season's player of the year - was voted best player by Bury FC Disabled Supporters.

Chairman Terry Robinson and manager Andy Preece both made speeches to the audience, and both said they hoped the takeover situation would be cleared up sooner rather than later.

It is now believed two separate parties are vying to buy the club but no sale has yet gone through.

That leaves the majority of first team players unsure of their futures at the club and many admitted last night that they had no idea where they would be after their contracts expire on June 30.