An Albion fan has been undergoing surgery following a hit-and-run motorbike crash minutes after his team's play-off victory.

Policeman Paul Haywood, 31, suffered severe leg injuries in the accident, which happened as he walked away from the crucial game against Bristol City in the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff.

Mr Haywood, of Findon Valley, had joined more than 30,000 Brighton and Hove Albion fans to see their team's 1-0 victory.

The season ticket-holder is such a devoted fan he called his daughter Katie Elizabeth Zamora Haywood after former Albion star striker Bobby Zamora.

Mr Haywood was walking along Herbert Road, near the junction with Lloyd George Avenue, Cardiff, at about 5.40pm on Sunday as thousands of jubilant fans left the ground when the accident happened.

The father-of-two was taken to the city's University of Wales Hospital and was due to have surgery yesterday though the injuries to his arms and legs are not life-threatening.

His partner Sarah was at home with their children when she heard the news.

She immediately left her house keys with a neighbour and drove her childrento the hospital more than 200 miles away.

The neighbour who is looking after the Haywoods' house said the policeman was regularly seen walking around in his Albion shirt.

He said: "We were having a barbecue when Sarah came round. She was a little bit distressed. She asked me to keep an eye on her place.

"She was at home with the kids when it happened.

"It could have happened to anyone but unfortunately happened to him on the day of promotion."

The motorcyclist failed to stop after the crash and South Wales Police appealed for witnesses to come forward.

The small off-road motorbike was green and carried a number 12 logo.

Inspector Malcolm Lewis, of South Wales Police, said: "The fans were well-behaved and it is a pity the event was marred by an incident of this type."

Any fan who saw the accident can contact PC Malcolm Gwillym at Cardiff Bay Police Station on 02920 222111.

Alternatively, anybody with information can contact Sussex Police on 0845 6070999.