Forces support Lionesses' Euro victory open-bus parade and homecoming celebration
Military bands have helped England's Lionesses commemorate their back-to-back Euro victory in celebrations in central London.
The Band of His Majesty's Royal Marines Portsmouth led the open-top bus procession down the Mall, while the Central Band of the Royal Air Force were on stage at the Queen Victoria Memorial until Sarina Wiegman's team arrived.
The RAF band performed in front of the stage and on it throughout the ceremony, hosted by Alex Scott, the former 140-cap England international and broadcaster.
Royal Marines drummers also escorted the trophy onto the stage during the celebration.
"The victory celebration in London will give England fans an opportunity to celebrate with the players, and be part of history," said FA chief executive Mark Bullingham.
"We've had amazing support from our fans both in Switzerland and at home throughout the tournament, and we look forward to celebrating together and creating some lifelong memories."
Thousands of members of the general public turned up to celebrate the historic victory, and they were able to see tournament highlights on big screens as they waited for Leah Williamson's team.
This latest celebration comes after 10 Downing Street organised a special reception for the Lionesses yesterday, with Angela Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister, in attendance, in light of their nail-biting win over Spain in the final at St. Jakob Park in Basel.
The Lionesses triumphed over Spain 3 – 1 on penalties following a 1 – 1 draw in the 90 minutes, with Chloe Kelly smashing in the winning penalty, leading to raucous celebrations from the side.
Alessia Russo, the Arsenal forward, scored England's goal through a header after Mariona Caldentey opened the scoring in the 25th minute for Spain.
Throughout the knock-out stages of the tournament, the Lionesses were in the lead for only four minutes and 52 seconds.
Lisa Nandy, the Minister for Culture, Media and Sport, said the Lionesses' win had "done our country proud".
"Now, we have the chance to cheer these heroes home at their homecoming parade," Ms Nandy added.
Many of these players will be back playing in the Women's Super League when it starts on 6 and 7 September.
The Lionesses' next big tournament is the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
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