Luton Town promotion: Hatters hold open-top bus tour

BBC Luton TownBBC
Thousands of fans enjoyed the sunshine in St George's Square as Luton Town FC celebrate promotion to League One

An open-top bus tour marking Luton Town's promotion to League One has taken place.

The Hatters were promoted after a 1-1 draw with Carlisle United, but they cannot catch Accrington Stanley at the top of the league.

Luton Town chief executive Gary Sweet said the event was "a great opportunity for the whole town to enjoy the promotion party".

The event began at midday at the club's Kenilworth Road ground.

Luton Town FC bus
Players and officials from the club enjoyed the adulation of the crowds as the bus sets off

The bus went along Dunstable Road, Telford Way and Manchester Street to St George's Square, where a number of short celebratory speeches took place.

Players and officials attended a civic reception in the Town Hall.

Live music played on stage as large screens displayed this season's highlights.

Mr Sweet said the event "underlines the great relationship we have with the town".

Mill Street, New Bedford Road, Bridge Street, Inkerman Street, Wellington Street, Dunstable Place and Oak Road were closed while the event took place.

Promotion ends a 10-year spell outside the top three tiers for Luton, but it did not stop manager Nathan Jones insisting his side had been the best in League Two.

Luton Town FC
The crowd roared with applause as the trophy was held up
Luton Town FC
Players meet civic figures and received accolades for their achievements this season
Luton Town FC
Children of all ages cheered on their favourite players