Thousands line the streets for Wembley heroes

Thousands of fans have lined the streets of Whitstable to celebrate their club winning the FA Vase for the first time in its history.

Whitstable Town FC came from behind to beat AFC Whyteleafe 2-1 in extra time at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, and an open-top bus parade was organised to celebrate the victory.

Goalkeeper Dan Colmer said the support for the players at the parade on Saturday was "crazy".

"There were people hanging out their bedrooms windows [and] standing on their roofs," he said.

Colmer said he felt like he had become a local celebrity.

"I feel like I could come back here in 20 years and they would know who I am," he explained.

Finn O'Mara, who also played in the final, said he could not believe the number of people who had lined the streets for the parade.

He said: "I don't even think some league clubs could do this to be honest with you."

O'Mara added: "I don't think we should be called little old Whitstable, I think we're big Whitstable now."

Ronald Sithole, who scored the winning goal, said the number of fans who came out for the parade was "unreal".

"Just everywhere there were just fans; packed, and packed, and packed," he said.

"It just meant a lot to us."

Simon Haseltine, who was at the game on Sunday, said: "I actually dreamt of this, so yeah it's an absolute dream, it's pretty awesome, it's beyond words."

As the parade started Peter Sampson, who was also among supporters at Wembley on Sunday, said: "I have never seen so many people in Whitstable."

Fan Gavin Spencer also praised the those who had come out to celebrate with the players.

"[There have been] fantastic vibes by everyone, [a] lovely community feeling from everyone.

"[It's been a] great, great, great day,"

Saturday's parade started at Whitstable Harbour and made its way through the town before finishing at The Primcura Healthcare Stadium.

Post-parade celebrations at the ground included a player awards ceremony, a chance to meet the players and photo opportunities with the FA Vase trophy.

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