A MAYOR is urging residents and Hartlepool United fans to line the streets and cheer on their local heroes during tomorrow's open-top bus parade.

Players and officials are taking the 16-mile tour to mark the club's promotion to League One.

They will set off from Victoria Park, in Clarence Road, at 11am and travel through the town as far as Seaton Carew, before they arrive at the Civic Centre for a reception at about 12.30pm.

The club is already assured of promotion and could clinch a historic league title today.

Hartlepool play at home against Bristol Rovers and, if they get a better result than Walsall, who are away to Swindon Town, will win the title.

It would be the first Hartlepool team to win the league and lift some silverware.

Hartlepool Mayor Stuart Drummond said yesterday: "It has been a magnificent season for Hartlepool United, and it is a major achievement to bounce back into League One at the first attempt.

"It promises to be a fantastic weekend, with a sell-out against Bristol Rovers on Saturday and the promotion parade on Sunday.

"Winning the title would be the icing on the cake, and I am sure that the team will be doing their utmost to win the first bit of silverware in the club's 99-year history.

"I really do hope that people come out in force and show their appreciation, not just to the team, but everyone associated with Hartlepool United Football Club."

He also praised a number of groups for their help to make the event possible.

He said: "The police have been extremely supportive, and we have received help and sponsorship from a number of organisations, including Camerons Brewery, the Staincliffe Hotel, Asda, BBC Radio Cleveland, Hartlepool United Supporters' Association and Hartlepool United Disabled Supporters' Association."

In the event of severe bad weather, there will be a shortened parade route.

People are advised to tune in to BBC Radio Cleveland (95FM) or visit www.hartlepoolunited.co. uk for updates.