NEW Bury chairman Stewart Day has thrown his backing behind club consultant Perry Deakin after fans voiced their anger over the appointment of the former Port Vale chief executive.

Deakin was made redundant from his role with the Valiants last year after the club went into administration.

He left Vale Park on bad terms with supporters who believed he had a case to answer for his role in the club’s financial demise.

It emerged this week the controversial figure had been employed by Bury’s new directors.

But while Day was quick to refute claims Deakin had been given a permanent job or even a place on the board, he has refused to withdraw his offer of consultancy work.

“The club want to make it clear to all concerned fans that Mr Deakin has been employed on a consultant only basis to assist in the reviewing of current contracts and the procedures of the current commercial department,” Bury’s new board of directors said in a statement.

“We are in the process of employing new staff for the way forward and Mr Deakin’s role will then be reviewed.

“We looked at his extensive experience at clubs such as Birmingham and Derby under the employment of such people as Karen Brady and Trevor Birch.

“It was his knowledge and experience that was needed as an immediate input into the turning around of the situation we found ourselves in.

“Mr Deakin is not a shareholder or director and as such reports to the board with all his findings.

“The chairman has full control and would not allow anyone to destroy the amazing work we have done to date and detract from the positive feedback we have had from the loyal fans.”

Day stepped into the media spotlight for the first time this week since his arrival at Gigg Lane, with interviews on local radio and Sky TV.

He was also part of a panel in the first of a series of fans forums at the club last night.