Boss Chris Hughton toasted promotion with a “nice few glasses of wine” last night as Albion’s rise to the Premier League was officially confirmed.

A 2-1 win over Wigan, the Seagulls’ fifth in succession, sparked euphoric scenes at the Amex.

They were effectively up at that stage, due to their vastly superior goal difference, but a late equaliser by Derby against third-placed Huddersfield two hours later made a top two finish mathematically certain.

Hughton said: “It’s massive. It’s very difficult to celebrate something that’s not official and as the manager of the club I am the one who is supposed to be the most professional.

“Although 99 per cent we knew we were there, the players deserve to have it confirmed, because they have been that good all season.

“People have spoken very well about this group of players and the way they have gone about their business all season. I’m really pleased it’s confirmed and I shall enjoy a nice few glasses of wine!”

Albion need one win from their last three matches, starting at Hughton’s old club Norwich on Friday night, to go up as champions after a 3-1 defeat for Newcastle at Ipswich left the hot pre-season favourites seven points adrift in second.

Hughton said: “It allows us now to go into these next three games with a real opportunity to win the division.

“Norwich, Aston Villa and Derby are three giants teams with great squads that are not even in the top six – that is the type of competition in this division.

“So to be where we are is a wonderful achievement. Our form at the right time has been exceptional at this stage of the season. That has been a little bit of a difference. Newcastle have had a difficult time and it can happen. We’ve had a really good spell at the right time.”