Birmingham City fans went from Carling Cup elation to anger after being denied the chance to greet their heroes on a victory parade.

Club and council officials have decided there will be no open top bus tour to mark the team’s first major trophy win since 1963.

Blues have instead planned a reception at St Andrew’s next weekend which will be part-financed by Birmingham City Council.

But supporters said they were furious they would miss out on seeing a bus tour – the traditional celebration of title and cup-winning football teams.

Fan Shane Gough, of Yardley, said: “We want a parade – the city deserves it.”

And fellow supporter Sylvia Jones, of Bordesley Green, added: “Why cannot we be treated like everyone else and share our glory with the whole city? We want an open top bus parade.”

A Blues fan and city council worker, who did not wish to be identified, said he did not see why supporters should be denied the chance to salute the team after seeing council leader Mike Whitby enjoying the game from the VIP section.