NICKY Adams aims to celebrate signing a new contract with Bury by helping the Shakers clinch promotion.

The local lad, aged 29, came through the Bury youth ranks before returning to help the Shakers win League Two promotion in 2015 under David Flitcroft.

The winger was released weeks later but former team-mate Ryan Lowe brought him back for a third spell last summer.

Adams was still recovering from a knee injury he suffered playing for Carlisle in November 2017, which ended his season.

But Adams has proven his fitness on his return to Gigg Lane and been a pivotal figure in their promotion push as only he, Joe Murphy and Adam Thompson have played every league game.

“I tried to get as fit as I could and prove to myself more than anything that I could still play at this level – and higher,” Adams said.

“The gaffer gave me a chance to play again so I owe him and my team-mates, they’ve been great with me this year, even though they batter me with all the stick!

“I’m over the moon to stay. As soon as it was offered it I didn’t hesitate.

“I came through here as a boy and it’s always got a special place for me.

“When you’re younger you don’t realise but now I’m more mature. This means a lot.

“I wear my heart on my sleeve, I always give 100 per cent and I think the fans know that.”

A popular figure in the dressing room and stands alike, Adams would cement his status among Bury fans by winning promotion for a second time.

The Shakers go into Saturday’s game at Grimsby six points behind leaders Lincoln, with a game in hand.

“Everyone’s ambition is to get promotion and we’ve given ourselves a really good chance,” said Adams.

Bury boss Lowe added: “He was in a dark place last season with his injury. Sometimes those injuries finish players off, so it’s a big ‘well done’ to Nicky for getting to where he’s got to.

“I was very keen to sign Nicky as he’s not only great on the football pitch with his ability, but he’s also one of the best lads I’ve ever been with in the dressing room. Everyone loves him.”

Last weekend’s postponed game at home to Cambridge has been rearranged for Tuesday, April 2.