Party time for the Mariners in South Shields

South Shields FC players are happy with the latest silverware.

Joyous fans were full of celebrations to mark the end of the football season.

After another successful season for the Mariners, supporters were treated to a party after the match on Saturday.

The marquee was up and the beer was flowing as the celebrations were in full swing for South Shields FC after they lifted their third league championship in as many years.

Delighted fans said it was an amazing achievement and they are very proud of the club and players.

Cliff Copp, 67, said he has followed the team since he was a boy and couldn’t be more thrilled.

Born and bred in South Shields, Cliff, said: “It is absolutely amazing.”

He said he would love to see the team go up again next year and that they have great managers.

Andy Gardner, left, and Mark Wheaten, are among the happy fans.

Cliff said: “They can do it. Maybe just bring a couple of more experienced player, but other than that just the same squad. The atmosphere and the team support is brilliant.”

Andy Gardner, a 37-year-old IT worker from Laygate, said: “I am elated. It has been a long season, but well worth it.”

And, Mark Wheaten, 44, from South Shields, said: “It is just excellent. They have exceeded all expectations.”

Chris Allen, 52, from Westoe, said it has been a brilliant season following the team and he will be bored during the summer.

One of the overjoyed fans in the party spirit.

The Mariners played the final game of their Evo-Stik North Division season in front of hundreds of fans.

And, much to the delight of fans, Shields beat Colne 2-1 as the curtain was brought down on another successful campaign.

The stadium erupted into songs and cheers at the final whistle and the players did a lap of honour before being presented with their awards.

Captain Julio Arca lifted the trophy aloft to get the champagne flowing ahead of a party in the Mariners Park marquee to celebrate the team’s achievements.

The Mariners will compete in the Evo-Stik Premier Division next season as their remarkable rise continues.

Their latest success comes a year after they lifted the FA Vase at Wembley - the first national trophy in the club’s history.

That was one of four competitions they won last season, and their momentum is showing no signs of stopping.