Having so often been the bridesmaid but never the bride, Fairbank United are understandably delighted at winning the Telegraph & Argus League’s Arthur Croft Trophy as Premier Division champions.

After their 4-2 victory over Bradford All Stars, whose title they have taken, at Bingley Road in the final game of the season, Fairbank’s club captain Nisar Hussain said: “Over the years we’ve been to three semi-finals, and narrowly missed out each time.

“We’ve come so close to winning the league on so many occasions and to have finally achieved this is brilliant.”

With many of the squad having come through their junior ranks, there was an added poignancy to United’s triumph, which was achieved with two games to spare.

Ardent fan and club sponsor Mohammed Shier, of Sheir Solicitors, said: “Having trekked around with the teams for a decade, I’m delighted for the lads.

“They just missed out on the title last year but have bounced back in the right manner. Hopefully this will be the first of many more.”

Manager Shazad Bashir added: “Winning the league wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the players.

“The boys have done themselves proud. I must take this opportunity to thank all the fans who have supported us all season and the clubs financial backers: Sajad Hussain of Sathi Foods, Mohammed Shokat of Premier Accident Management UK and Zaheer Hussain of Sal’s Pizza Bar.”

Fairbank have proved to be the most consistent team in the league this year, dropping only seven points out of a possible 60.

Key wins early in the season over title rivals Bradford Arms, TYCC and Lidget Green set them on their way.

However, Fairbank were denied cup success, falling at the semi-final stage on penalties.

Despite missing out on the cup, Fairbank did end up with an extra piece of silverware this season.

United’s Akif Waseem was named as secretary of the year.

Fairbank United, who are based in Girlington, were formed in 1996 and, along with structured footballing activities for a largely multicultural area, they also have a community role.