More than 300 football fans descended on a pub causing disorder including theft, criminal damage and racial abuse after Portsmouth secured promotion back to the Championship on Tuesday night, Hampshire Police said.

The force is now appealing for witnesses after the incidents following Pompey's 3-2 victory over Barnsley, which won them the League One title.

Police began to receive calls just before 11pm reporting that a disorder had broken out at O'Neill's pub in Albert Road, Southsea.

It is believed around 300 people were present at the time, and police received reports of a number of offences, including theft, criminal damage and racial abuse aimed at a staff member.

The disorder is reported to have continued into surrounding streets, with people present then moving off in reduced groups to other venues.

Officers also received a report of criminal damage in Drift Bar, and of a man being assaulted in Palmerston Road.

Police enquiries are now continuing, with officers present taking statements, seizing any CCTV footage and identifying all offences committed during the disorder.

No arrests have been made at present. 

READ MORE: Hampshire Police on possibility of Southampton v Portsmouth return

Chief Inspector Paul Markham, district commander for Portsmouth, said: "Portsmouth's win against Barnsley last night was a fantastic moment for the club and for the city, and a moment everyone rightly wanted to celebrate.

"Sadly, a small number of people saw this as an opportunity to commit mindless acts of violence and criminal damage as part of the wider celebrations.

"Officers have been out in Southsea today and we are working hard to identify any and all offences committed and ensure all lines of enquiry available are thoroughly investigated to identify people responsible.

"The vast majority of those attending the game last night were there to enjoy the occasion and wanted no involvement in any disorder, and we know this has been the case throughout the season.

"We will not tolerate the minority who wish to use events such as this one to commit crime.

"On Saturday, there will be football in Portsmouth again, with the final home game of the season against Wigan.

“We consistently review our plans for all matchdays, and last night's actions will form part of this review of our resources for the game."