SHRIMPS' skipper Jim Bentley says he hopes to see a big crowd at Christie Park to celebrate his side's best ever season.

Bentley said although he was disappointed to miss out on the play-offs after a superb end of season run of two defeats in 20 games the club should be proud of their achievements this year.

The inspirational skipper, who has once again been an almost ever present this season, said: "This season has been an improvement on last year and we are heading in the right direction.

"As a club we want to consolidate and improve and we have done very well.

"We had a shaky start but we picked it up and improved as the season went on. Looking at the season overall we probably drew too many games but if we turn just a couple of those into wins next year then I can't see any reason why we can't maintain the improvement.''

He added: "One thing I have to mention is the togetherness of the lads this season. They are a real, honest bunch of players who give their all week in week out and I know most fans really do appreciate that.

"We want to end on a high on Saturday against Bournemouth and I hope that there is a good crowd to see the season out. The fans have been first class this season as always and the lads really do appreciate it and we hope to see as many as possible over the weekend with the game on Saturday and the player of the year night on Sunday.''