Albion-mad Andy Burgess has proved to be one of the club’s most dedicated fans - by having a soaring seagull tattooed on his back.

The 38-year-old has supported Brighton and Hove Albion since 1982.

Over the years he has held several season tickets and been to countless games but has now shown the club the ultimate show of support.

Andy, of Penn Crescent, Haywards Heath, was inked by artist Mick J at his Blue Dragon Tattoo Studio in North Road, Brighton.

The four-hour process was completed a few weeks ago and has now totally healed.

Andy said: “I'm over the moon with it.

“I'm a keen Brighton supporter but I didn't want the club's badge so I opted for this instead and Mick really brought it to life for me.

“I also like seagulls as birds as well. I like their cheeky nature and I think they are beautiful animals.”

Mick explained that Andy's seagull was easy for him to bring life as he specialises in realistic animal tattoos, building on his former career as an airbrush artist.

He said: “I started out as an airbrush artist doing pieces on cars and motorbikes.

“The main difference with tattooing is that everyone's skin is different. It's like having a different kind of canvas each time.

“I think this more realistic style is an aspect of tattooing that can be explored more now.

“There are some great tattooists in Brighton and I think the city is one of the leading places in the country for the art.”

Mick explained that airbrushing tattoos was harder than drawing traditional ones because they did not have an outline.

He said: “You are basically painting from one side to the other with the style that I do.

“It's a very unusual tattoo that Andy has chosen but I think it's great.

“We sat and discussed it beforehand and he found a perfect picture for me to make a transfer of.

“To have something that big and bold is a real show of loyalty to the club.”

Looking ahead to the upcoming season for the Seagulls, Andy said: “I'm really excited about the new ground and I'm hoping and believing that we should get promoted this year.

“I think Russell Slade is the man to do it for us.”

Have you got an unusual tattoo? Send us your mobile phone pictures to 80360. Start your message with SUPIC. Or email them to news@theargus.co.uk.