JUBILANT Town fans were celebrating an immediate return to the third tier of English football on Saturday, even though the team went down 3-1 to arch rivals Gillingham.

The travelling faithful, and many more in earshot of a radio, were made to wait until the final whistle to learn their fate as other results in League Two meant Town had secured promotion at the first time of asking since their drop into the basement of the Football League last year.

It marks a remarkable year for the club after changes at all levels, including the resignation of Andrew Fitton first as chairman and then from the board of directors, the appointment of untested manager Paolo Di Canio, and Wembley woe in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.

Now the fans are hoping the club can go on to take the League Two title and perhaps even emulate Lou Macari’s double promotion-winning side of the 1980s.

Stepping off the coach back from Gillingham on Saturday supporters were in a buoyant mood.

Season ticket holder Alan Farrimond, 41, of Rodbourne Cheney, said: “I’m absolutely delighted. I did not think we would come straight back up.

“You could see Paolo was crying and he held the scarf up but he was mobbed by photographers so he could barely move.”

David Barry, 51, who has held a season ticket for 25 years, said: “Paolo was a key factor this season and going up is fantastic - I’m delighted for him.”

Aileen Bates, also a regular of the Red Army, said: “I’m very pleased although the game was disappointing. Hopefully, we can get three points at home next Saturday.”

Nigel Bennett, a spokesman for Swindon Town Supporters’ Club, said: “Promotion was what every fan would have been hoping we would achieve this season, ensuring a quick return to League One.

“Reflecting on the season so far, it has been very exciting for fans, not just promotion but the Wembley appearance and with Paolo galvanising not just the team but the fans, supported by the board.

“Let’s hope that that momentum is carried forward into next season.

“There is of course one more target to achieve which is winning the title next Saturday and I’m sure that the County Ground will be full to the rafters with fans wanting to share the experience.”