Stunning pictures capture ecstasy of England cricket fans in Trafalgar Square… as the Queen congratulates World Cup heroes

Stunning pictures have captured the joy of England fans celebrating the incredible Cricket World Cup final win in Trafalgar Square.

Thousands of England and New Zealand fans had gathered in the square’s fan zone to watch one of the most dramatic cup finals in sporting history.

But it was the England fans who were in ecstasy after the men’s team became world champions for the first time ever at Lord’s.

They, alongside the 30,000 fans inside the ground and millions watching at home, were rapturous after the final was decided by a super over.

A number of fans stripped off as they celebrated inside the water fountain, with the party promising to go on all night.

Callum Stevens, 23, told PA of the scenes in Trafalgar Square: “I’ve watched cricket all my life. I’ve never had a moment like that ever.

“I can’t describe it. A super over. It never happens. Suddenly it’s the World Cup final and we’ve got to use a super over. It’s absolute pandemonium. People are like: ‘What is going on?’

“And it went ballistic in there and everyone’s in the fountain. Euphoria. The best sporting thing I’ve ever seen in my life hands down.”

Meanwhile, not far away in Buckingham Palace, the Queen released a statement congratulating the team, which was led by the superb Ben Stokes.

She said: “Prince Philip and I send our warmest congratulations to the England Men’s Cricket team after such a thrilling victory in today’s World Cup Final.

“I also extend my commiserations to the runners-up New Zealand, who competed so admirably in today’s contest and throughout the tournament.”

Outside Lords, the atmosphere was just as jubilant.

Marianne Benton, 59, from Marlborough, Wiltshire, told PA as she left the ground: “You would not be able to make it up, it was like a penalty shoot-out but better.

“It was unbelievable. If this does not get people more interest in cricket, I don’t know what will.

“It was quite emotional in there, strangers were kissing each other, people were crying, it was amazing. People were cheering and shouting out.”

Meanwhile, the Royal Mail has said it will use special stamps, white and gold postboxes and a postmark to celebrate the England cricket team’s historic victory.

A sheet of stamps will showcase images of the England men’s team from their Cricket World Cup winning campaign while a second sheet will feature images of the England women’s winning team from their 2017 victory.