SOCCER underdogs who captured the hearts of the nation with an FA Cup run this season, were honoured for their exploits at a civic reception.

Harrogate Railway, part-timers from the Northern Counties East League, became the lowliest side ever to progress to the second round proper after clearing a string of preliminary rounds.

They bowed out with honour in a 3-1 defeat to Bristol City at their transformed Station View ground in Starbeck.

Temporary stands had to be erected to accommodate a capacity crowd of 3,500, which saw football history in the making on a pitch which slopes from one touchline to the other.

The Mayor of Harrogate, Councillor Alan Skidmore, threw a civic reception for the team and paid a glowing tribute to their exploits.

At the reception in Harrogate Borough Council chamber, the club revealed that it had just been named an elite FA Community Club.

They will pick up their award at Bradford City's home match against Crystal Palace on Saturday.

The award is given to clubs who can demonstrate they cater for a range of age groups, from tiny tots to veterans and women footballers, and it could unlock up to £500,000 in grants for Railway.

The cash is likely to be spent, along with the £100,000 the club made from its FA Cup run, on major ground improvements.

The club hopes it will pave the way for entry into the Unibond League.