COMMUNITY leaders have paid glowing tribute to Keighley Cougars after the club secured promotion to rugby league's championship.

Cougars, who were relegated to league one in 2014, clinched the title – and a return to the championship – with an impressive win at Doncaster yesterday.

Keighley's town mayor, Councillor Luke Maunsell, said: "It's absolutely fantastic that the Cougars have been promoted after an eight-year stint in league one.

"They have had an incredible season and I 'd like to extend my heartfelt praise to head coach Rhys Lovegrove, all the players and the owners for ensuring this great achievement. Cougars are such an important part of this town and I can't thank them enough for everything they do for our community."

Bradford Council leader, Councillor Susan Hinchliffe, said the promotion was "wonderful news".

She added: "I congratulate the club on this magnificent achievement. The Cougars fully deserve their success. Sport plays a critical role in inspiring people across the district and we’re currently working with the Cougars to help them secure a community grant to upgrade Cougar Park. The future certainly looks very bright for the club and we'll do everything we can to support it to continue to succeed."