Thousands join victory party

Harry Redknapp and Milan Mandaric paid tribute to the fans

Thousands of people lined the streets of Portsmouth amid jubilant scenes as their championship-winning football team went on a victory tour.

The squad left the Guildhall for a 75-minute open-topped bus ride through the streets at 1300 BST, for a party on Southsea Seafront.

At least 30,000 people gathered on the seafront, where a giant screen relayed the scene as the players arrived.

Portsmouth secured promotion to the top-flight for the first time for 15 years a month ago, and wrapped up the First Division title shortly afterwards.

Police estimate over 30,000 people turned out on Southsea seafront

The famous Pompey Chimes, which have been turned off in recent months, rang specially from the Guildhall clock between 1200 and 1500 BST.

Huge numbers of people congregated on the common, where the city council put on free music and entertainment.

Manager Harry Redknapp sounded emotional as he told the huge crowd: "It's been fantastic, even Man United when they won the premier league will not have a turnout as good as what this is.

"I've never seen such fantastic supporters as this football club has."

Chairman Milan Mandaric dedicated the trophy to the fans.

"You are the true champions and the city of Portsmouth is champion city."

Pompey fan Brendan Bone said: "It's not just about the football club today - it's is about the city, this shows how much this means to the city.

"Portsmouth is a proud city, and this is the biggest thing to happen to it for 15 years."