AFTER a groundbreaking season Albion fans remain on cloud nine over their progress.

In the build up to Albion securing promotion to the Premier League the club launched a successful campaign to encourage fans to paint Sussex blue and white.

Club bosses and The Argus joined forces earlier this month to call on supporters to be the team’s 12th man and give manager Chris Hughton and the players the boost they needed.

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary in Davey Drive, Brighton, held a Brighton and Hove Albion Day to show support and happiness to the football club in their recent promotion.

Juliet Skinner PE Co-Ordinator, said the children participated in activities including Beat the Goalie, researching facts about Albion and making seagulls, flags and bunting as well as decorating gingerbread men with blue and white icing to create the team’s kit.

All the children came to school dressed in the team colours after teaching assistant James Muschamp organised the event.

Fans have been getting into the party mood all week.

One fan of 79 years has commended the club’s fans for coming together at such an important time in Albion’s history.

Bernie Dawes, 84, from Peacehaven, said: “I just can’t believe how far we have come together.

“Once again Albion’s hopes of winning the league title rested partly on the efforts of Newcastle, who played Cardiff last night.

“It was the same in 1979 when Albion went to Newcastle knowing a win would guarantee promotion to Division 1.

“I was at that game and will always treasure my memories of that day and the celebrations afterwards.

“When Albion’s third goal hit the back of the net, we all knew that great things lay ahead for the club.”

Dorothy Purvis had her house in Ryde Road, Brighton, painted blue. Her windows are also adorned with Albion flags and she has a stained glass Seagulls badge on her front door.

The die-hard 83-year-old Albion fan insisted on dressing in blue and white for days to celebrate the end of the season.

She said: “I’m so pleased. They deserve it. They have played so well.

“I have had some really good times.

“I have been a fan going back 45 years.

“I used to go to the Goldstone and I still have all the programmes.

“I have given up my season ticket because it costs a lot and I get quite cold in the stands now, but I will definitely be going to some games next season.

“I have always loved the atmosphere even if my family all think I’m mad.”

Thousands of fans invaded the pitch at the Amex Stadium in an unforgettable show of support after the 2-1 win over Wigan when the Seagulls won promotion on April 17.

Albion and Brighton and Hove City Council confirmed that an open-top bus parade will take place along the seafront on Sunday, May 14.

Albion urged fans to arrive early today as the club expects a large celebration to take place regardless of the Championship title result last night. The club has lined up pre-match events and the trophy will be ready to be presented after the game.