RUGBY fans returning from Paris to Ashford via Eurostar expressed their pride at the England team, despite their loss in the World Cup final.

Supporters returning home through Ashford International station on Sunday were among the tens of thousands who watched England’s defeat to South Africa.

Dawn Denton said: “The fact that they had gone from a 36-0 defeat to reaching the final was quite and achievement.

“It would have been nice to win but they did well.

“The atmosphere at the stadium was also terrific.”

John Irving said: “The better side won but England still played brilliantly and we should be proud of them.”

David Newton added: “England played tough so while the better team won it was only marginal.

“A few months ago nobody believed we would get this far.”

England lost 15-6 to South Africa in the Stade de France on Saturday but were given widespread credit for their strong performance in the tournament.