DELIGHTED leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council Mike Jones has heralded City Fans United's successful bid as something “special” for the city.

Speaking after the authority’s announcement to support CFU’s bid and bring football back to the Deva Stadium, Cllr Jones said: “It was clearly well-thought through and the CFU had a good understanding of what they need to do to get a team playing in August.

“Both groups put forward good plans but the CFU bid was far superior for the community and had more forward-planning under their belt.

“We will give them all the support they need to make their ideas possible. If it happens then the process we have gone through might have been worthwhile, even when we sank in despair.”

Reaffirming both the phoenix club’s and the council’s shared goal to have a community-run club, Cllr Jones added: “CFU showed a commitment to the community with the use of the facilities, like the office and the bar, and for other sports and young footballers, which we think is important to make something special for Chester.

“There are no plans yet, the priority is getting a football team up and running and that begins with registering with the FA today.

“I implore the residents and businesses of Chester to get behind the team.

“If people turn out it will make a difference for football in Chester.

“I congratulate CFU, they have worked hard and can be very proud of what they have achieved.”