This is it - the moment Albion were officially crowned Third Division champions.

Boss Micky Adams lifts the trophy amid jubilant scenes at Withdean last night after the Seagulls had beaten title rivals Chesterfield 1-0.

A bullet header by Danny Cullip 11 minutes from time sparked wild celebrations of Albion's first championship for 36 years.

Adams, a gold medal draped around his neck, declared: "What a night! I cannot pay my players enough accolades.

"They were magnificent from start to finish, but it was not just about this game it's about the season.

"We are top of the tree and nobody can ever take it away from us."

Albion's victory means they are guaranteed to finish above Chesterfield, regardless of the nine-point deduction hanging over the Derbyshire club.

That recommended punishment for financial irregularities was re-affirmed by a disciplinary panel earlier in the day and should be ratified by the Football League Board tomorrow.

Chesterfield are going up with the Seagulls despite their defeat, Hull's failure to win at Southend removing their need for a point.

Adams said: "I feel sorry for Chesterfield, who were going great guns before all these allegations were thrown at them.

"Good luck to them. I hope everything gets sorted out for them and their fans now, but as I've said many times before I believe in myself and I believe in my players.

"I've got a smashing group of players, great staff and great supporters. How could I fail?"

Cullip thumped home the goal from a Paul Watson corner, which was delayed while Lee Steele came on for Gary Hart.

"Great substitution wasn't it," Adams quipped. "They lost their concentration slightly and up popped Danny.

"He has been magnificent all season and for him to cap it all with a goal speaks volumes for the man, but it has been a squad effort."

Albion will break the club record of 29 victories in a season, dating back to 1955-56, if they win both their remaining matches at Halifax tomorrow night and at Shrewsbury on Saturday.