Johnnie Jackson rattled the inside of the post from a free-kick in the first half and David Marshall had to turn a sweetly struck shot from Ricardo Fuller round the post in the second period.

Cardiff managed to get the ball in the net after the break but the effort was ruled out for offside.

But this was a night that was always going to be about the occasion rather than the fare on the pitch. A point was all Cardiff needed to ensure promotion to the top-flight after a 51 year absence. Even a defeat would have seen them go up, as Millwall’s win over Watford made it impossible for the Hornets to catch the Bluebirds.

Travelling was difficult, with delays or congestion en route. An hour before kick-off the environs of the stadium were awash with excited but nervy fans.

The Cardiff City Stadium is a magnificent facility, well organised with helpful stewards. The concouses are wide and spacious with more than ample toilets.

The atmosphere was cranked up before kick-off and there was a poignant moment when Lennie Lawrence’s former assistant, Eddie May, was remembered. Eddie died a year ago and was also a former Cardiff manager. Eddie’s Charlton supporting son, Paul, was a guest of Cardiff and must have found the tribute to his late father emotional.

The teams entered the arena to the stirring strains of “Men Of Harlech”, which was also played when the players reappeared for the second half.

There was a real buzz round the ground when news filtered through that Millwall had taken the lead against Watford. A minute before the game ended, Chris Powell congratulated his opposite number on a magnificent achievement.

As the final whistle went, there was a full scale pitch invasion amid joyous scenes around the stadium. Stewards and fans were openly weeping.

Full credit to the Charlton fans who stayed behind to show their respect to Cardiff.

This time next year, Addicks fans will be hoping it’s their turn. Well done Cardiff, they thoroughly deserve to be in the Premier League.

Charlton: Hamer; Solly, Morrison, Dervite, Wiggins; Pritchard (Green 88), Hughes (Gower 81), Jackson, Harriott; Kermorgant, Fuller (Obika 81).

Subs (not used): Button, Taylor, Wilson, Kerkar.

Booked: Fuller 62 (foul).

Cardiff: Marshall; McNaughton, Turner, Barnett, Taylor; Noone (Smith 72), Kim, Gunnarsson, Mutch, Bellamy; Gestede,

Subs (not used): Lewis, Nugent, Conway, Cowie, Whittingham, Mason.

Referee: Scott Mathieson (Cheshire).

Attn: 26,338.