Micky Adams has crowned a memorable season with a prestigious prize from his peers.

The Albion boss has been voted Third Division Manager Of The Year.

Adams picked up his award last night from England coach Sven Goran Eriksson at a glittering ceremony staged by the League Managers' Association at the Moat House Hotel in Nottingham.

He voted for Brian Little, who took Hull to the play-offs despite crippling financial problems.

But Adams was the outstanding candidate after steering the Seagulls to their first silverware for 36 years by ten clear points.

He said: It's terrific. This just finishes off the season nicely for me. It is always pleasing to be recognised by your fellow managers."

It is the second time in five seasons that Adams has scooped the award.

He won it in 1997, even though his Fulham side were pipped into second place then by Wigan.

Adams joked: "The last time I won it I was sacked within three months, so I wasn't sure whether to throw it back."

Adams, currently considering a new contract offer, has also collected manager of the month awards in each of his two full seasons with the Seagulls.

Adams' pick for the Premiership prize triumphed as well. The Carling sponsored accolade went to George Burley for steering promoted Ipswich to fifth and a UEFA Cup place.

Burley succeeds Sir Alex Ferguson, who guided Manchester United to the title for the seventh time in nine seasons.

Fulham's Jean Tigana won the First Division award and Rotherham's Ronnie Moore the Division Two prize.