Lionesses given heroic homecoming as red carpet laid out in Downing Street

The England women's football team were met with cheering crowds and red carpet treatment at a Downing Street reception celebrating their Women's European Championship triumph. The Lionesses defended their title with a 3-1 penalty shoot-out victory over Spain in Basel on Sunday evening and flew back to the UK today. The team travelled to Westminster shortly after touching down on home soil, to find Number 10 decked out with St George's flags, bunting and a red carpet as part of a reception hosted by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and sports minister Stephanie Peacock.

England head coach Sarina Wiegman told Sky Sports News that the Downing Street celebration was "very, very special". "Downing Street, you don't come there normally and it was really nice how they built it up like this," she said. "It is very special to be able to go inside and also in the garden. The people there were very nice, they also put up some pictures of what we have done at the Euros."

"It was lovely, a very warm welcome. I've felt love all over but today, even more so."

Before enjoying canapes and drinks in Number 10's garden, the Lionesses were met with hundreds of cheering fans when they landed at Southend Airport on Monday afternoon.

Their win will also be celebrated by an open-top bus parade in central London on Tuesday, a procession along The Mall and a ceremony at the Queen Victoria Memorial, in front of Buckingham Palace.

The team's success in the championship tournament boiled down to penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time.

Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton made two impressive saves in the shootout before Chloe Kelly fired home from the penalty spot to ensure England retained their European title.

The squad could also be treated to a trip to Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle, with reports suggesting plans are in the works for an autumn reception organised by royal aides.

Asked about speculation that she could be in line for an honorary damehood, Ms Wiegman said: "I haven't thought about that. I feel so much respect from England, the Royal Family too.

"I think the most important thing is feeling valued. It's very special to get so much respect from England."