50,000 supporters and counting

What a turnout for AFC Bournemouth’s victory open top bus tour along the seafront on 4 May.

Originally planned to celebrate the Cherries’ promotion to the Premier League, (a first in its 116 year history), it got bumped to a victory tour after they also secured the Sky Bet Championship title on 2 May.

What a dream fulfilled for manager Eddie Howe who wanted to see the Cherries lift the trophy.

And lift it they did in front of an estimated 50,000 supporters who cheered them from pier to pier.

The Mayor of Bournemouth Chris Mayne said, “What a truly fitting way to recognise the monumental achievement of the Cherries and where better to celebrate that success than right here on a world class beach in a world class resort enhanced by the town’s reputation with having a Premier League football team.”

Chairman of the club, Jeff Mostyn added, “What an amazing turnout. What a long journey we’ve had together. Six years ago we were on the abyss of division two and what Eddie Howe and his team Eddie, Jason, Simon and this wonderful group of players have done is brought us to the promised land of the Premier League.”

The promotion has put the town in the spotlight. Long time supporter David Wilkinson said, “There’s a misconception about Bournemouth that it’s a little club, but we have a large population to draw on from the surrounding areas, which are relatively affluent. The Premiership attracts a theatre crowd and we have that in the area.“

Fan Gary Schneider added, “This is a chance of a lifetime and we must make the most of it and enjoy it. It’s inspirational for the local kids.”