DAVID Sharpe was quick to heap praise on Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey after he guided the club back into the Kingstone Press Championship via the League One play-offs.

Sharpe was the man who brought Crarey back to the helm at Craven Park during his first spell as chairman three years ago with the Raiders at a low ebb and in need of rebuilding.

The culmination of the efforts put in both on and off the field during that time was yesterday's 10-6 win at home to Whitehaven in the play-off final and Sharpe was pleased for Crarey as much as anything.

"I feel for Paul so much," said Sharpe. "He's put so much work into this club on and off the field, he's been there through thick and thin, and that man deserves all of the credit he gets.

"The praise can't be high enough for him and I've got all the time in the world for the man. He's done a wonderful job, I've never seen team spirit like it and it was great to see over 3,000 people in the ground.

"Hats off to Whitehaven as well because they brought a lot of supporters, and it's a very special day."

The crowd of 3,128 was by far the highest attendance Craven Park has seen this year and it is hoped regular matches against Championship opponents will lead to a boost in numbers coming through the gates.

Sharpe, who has called an EGM in the Raiders Bar this Wednesday evening, knows it will still be a challenge for Barrow though - but it is one he is relishing after recently returning as chairman.

"There are a lot of challenges, but to be honest I'd sooner have those challenges than being in League One," said Sharpe.

"It means we're going to be playing teams who are recognised by the public in general, which will hopefully lead to better crowds, more away support coming and a better atmosphere.

"It gives the players something to strive for, playing at a higher level, it gives another challenge to Paul as a coach and a challenge to us off the field.

"But we're up for it, I've always been up for it and work took me away from the club 12 months ago, which was heartbreaking, but I've got my house in order and we're ready to go."