THE English Football League's decision to expel Bury FC from the league has left the football community devastated.
Players and fans have voiced their heartbreak and disbelief at the situation now faced by the club.
Thousands of people across the country have taken to social media following the collapse, with many sharing their memories and highlights of the club's 134-year history.
Bury FC captain Neil Danns said he is "devastated" but thankful for the memories he has made.
He shared this post on Facebook: "Devastated for everyone involved. Thank you for the memories #UTS BURY FC."
The midfielder also shared a photo of the club's crest as others pronounced that it was a "very sad day for Bury and for football as a whole."
Football legend Neville Southall, who played for Bury between 1980-81, has outlined his sadness at the expulsion.
The former Everton and Wales goalkeeper posted on Twitter:
It’s a very sad day for football
— Neville Southall (@NevilleSouthall) August 28, 2019
The club that took a chance on me has been left to sink
The rich get richer
While the poor die off
Bury FC will survive because the fans have got what the FA don’t
Compassion,commitment,desire and heart
💙💙💙
Sheffield United player Kean Bryan described the situation as "heartbreaking."
The defender joined Bury on loan in August 2016 fro the remainder of the 2016-17 season. He made his debt in the EFL that September at Gigg Lane.
Heartbreaking seeing what’s happened at @buryfcofficial . The club where I made my professional debut.. will always have a place in my heart. Thinking of the fans and the people of bury 💔💙 pic.twitter.com/l85Th4PIRh
— Kean Bryan (@keanB07) August 28, 2019
Fans have been leaving flower tributes and heartfelt messages at the entrance to Gigg Lane.
Devastated fans are continuing to add to the tributes adorning the railings outside Gigg Lane #buryfc pic.twitter.com/cFa8V0ZvXC
— Tom George (@TommmGeorge) August 28, 2019
Others have taken to social media to share words of commiseration.
Fan David Smith posted: "Thank you for the good memories Neil Danns and all the best with your career. Such a sad day for a club which my son has coached at and my father has supported 83 years and myself more than 50 years.
"I hope the town bounces back but it will take time. #BuryFC #BFC #UTS."
Bury FC was established in 1885, with the club being a founder member of the Lancashire League in 1889.
The Shakers were crowned champions in the 1890–91 and 1891–92 seasons, before being elected to The Football League, now the EFL, in 1894.
The wider football community has expressed shock as well as compassionate messages with fans and players.
Neighbouring club Radcliffe FC say they are "heartbroken" at the news of Bury's expulsion.
Heartbroken, this is one of the darkest of footballing days. You are our brother and our most supportive footballing friend. This is difficult to process. Our thoughts are with everyone connected to the Club. #BuryFC will rise again. #footballfamily pic.twitter.com/YdIx3JITb1
— Radcliffe FC (@radcliffeboro) August 27, 2019
Clubs across the country have voiced their devastation, with many recounting memories of games against Bury. Commiserations have been shared by Hull City, Cleethorpes Town FC, Chorley Football Club, Bradford City and Weymouth FC to name a few.
Our thoughts go out to everyone associated with @buryfcofficial
— Weymouth FC (@theterras) August 28, 2019
We have good memories of our two FA Cup games back in 2006, including a trip to Gigg Lane for a replay.
It is sad that this has been allowed to happen. pic.twitter.com/XoQCHR3rLC
Gillinham FC, Kent's only EFL club, say they hope to see Bury back very soon.
🙌 | Our thoughts are with the players, staff, and supporters of @buryfcofficial this morning. #BCAFC | #OurCity pic.twitter.com/eaPbZbZAZD
— Bradford City (@officialbantams) August 28, 2019
Football community Facebook page Football Away Days, which has more than 270,000 followers, has also expressed sympathy.
They posted: "134 years, two FA Cups. Genuinely gutted for the fans and staff of Bury FC."
Oldham Athletic fan Jeff Elliott posted: "So sorry to hear this devastating news from your friends and neighbours at Latics, really hope you can do a Wimbledon and come back as AFC Bury."
Meanwhile others have placed blame on both the EFL and Premier League teams for the collapse.
Resident James Bradshaw posted: "A dark day in our beloved game. Bury FC, since 1885, now no more unfortunately. Money is spoiling the game. Billions in the Premier League and I can see it getting worse. RIP Bury FC."
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