AS THE last matches of the EFL Championship are played out today, the Echo looks back at when Cherries burst into the top-flight of English football.

Promotion came following a fairytale season widely regarded as the best in the team's 122-year history.

A 3-0 victory for Eddie Howe’s team against Charlton at The Valley on May 2, 2015, coupled with a dramatic draw for rivals Watford, saw the trophy end up in Dorset.

Cherries, who had a Harry Arter goal sandwiched between a brace from Matt Ritchie, appeared to be heading for runners-up spot after dominating against the Addicks.

However, a late leveller by Sheffield Wednesday’s Atdhe Nuhiu at Vicarage Road saw Howe’s men wrest the title from the Hornets in stunning fashion.

As news of Wednesday’s late equaliser filtered through, Cherries supporters celebrated, while Charlton fans were gracious with their applause.

Promoted on six previous occasions, Cherries had only ever won one championship – under Harry Redknapp in 1987.

But Howe marked his third promotion in five seasons by sealing Cherries’ place in the Premier League with the silverware.

And although Cherries won't be topping the League this season, their dreams of a return to the Premier League are still very much intact through the playoffs.