Massive ratings for England's World Cup win

Almost 15 million viewers tuned in for Jonny Wilkinson's winning drop goal leading to England's rugby World Cup victory on Saturday, early figures show.

Coverage peaked at some 14.5 million viewers - a massive 82% share of the viewing audience - between 11.20am and 11.25am. The average for the entire game, which began at the early time of 8.45am, stood at 12.3 million viewers and a 77% share, well above the 10 million expectations.

The figures are set to rise even further when those who recorded the game are taken into account, although it is unlikely that they will topple the 13.6 million who saw Australia beat England in the final of 1991.

Naturally, ITV were overjoyed at the figures. "We are delighted so many millions of viewers were able to share such a phenomenal sporting event live on ITV," said Brian Barwick, ITV's controller of sport. "It was spell-binding television with a sensational climax and it capped seven weeks of brilliant live rugby action.

"It was also ultimately a privilege for ITV Sport to be the broadcaster on the day when England became world champions again! The event has been a huge success for ITV in terms of the viewing figures, the nature of the audience that has watched the output and the production itself."

More soon.