The Easter break was one long promotion party as Brighton and Hove Albion fans toasted their new status.

On Saturday the Seagulls won promotion to the Second Division - their first promotion since 1987/8.

And yesterday hundreds turned out to watch the Seagulls confirm their star quality with a 2-0 win against Darlington at Withdean.

Fans formed a sea of blue and white at the end of the match as the players danced and waved on a lap of honour.

Goalkeeper Michel Kuipers sprayed supporters with champagne to the strains of Sussex By The Sea.

Fans chanted constantly throughout the second half of the sell-out game.

Youngsters and families gathered outside the ground, some climbing trees to find the best vantage point.

Many supporters painted their faces blue and white and others carried balloons and banners bearing the words We're Going Up.

Fan Peter Cooke, 14, of Old Shoreham Road, Hove, said: "I have supported the Seagulls all my life and this is just great.

"We have been through some hard times but a great day like today makes it all worthwhile."

Dean Beattie, 31, said: "It is these moments that are special in the memories of every football fan.

"Albion have been terrific this season and after all the hardship we have had to put up with, we deserve it."

High-profile fans at yesterday's match included TV presenter Des Lynam, Hove MP Ivor Caplin and Star Wars actor Ralph Brown.

Des said: "Obviously I am delighted that the Albion are going up. I thought it was actually going to happen today but I am glad to be here anyway.

"I have been following the team for years and I have seen a few relegation battles but the lads have done a brilliant job and it is great for the city."

Some fans inside the ground got into the spirit of the day by dressing as Easter bunnies.

One of them, Georgina Bearns, 27, of Elm Grove, Brighton, said: "All we need now is a new ground to cater for a greater number of fans which we can expect in the future when we become even more successful."