ENGLAND fans were left devastated as the nation missed out on a place in the World Cup final.

The dream was crushed for supporters in Moscow and at home as Gareth Southgate's men lost 2-1 to Croatia in the semi-final after extra time.

Millions tuned into the eagerly-anticipated match, with sorrowful scenes up and down the country after days of singing "It's coming home".

Streets fell silent across the North-East as people watched the game at home, in pubs and probably even at work.

After Kieran Trippier had put England in front in the first five minutes it looked the Three Lions might make their first World Cup final since victory on home turf in 1966.

However, first Ivan Perisic equalised in the second half and then Mario Mandzukic scored the decisive winner in the second period of extra time.

Gareth Thompson, of Darlington who watched the match in the William Stead, said: “It’s so disappointing but they should be proud to get this far. Who thought we would get to the semi-final anyway? It’s just an horrendous way to go out.”

Tim Witham added: “They should be proud of their achievements but it’s so disappointing to go out in the semis.”

Frances Ingham from Darlington: “It was disappointing, but the boys did us proud overall. They can hold their heads up high.”

While Claire Chapman, from Northallerton, said: "It's a very disappointing result but overall I'm very proud of the team for their positive approach and the way they've connected with the fans."

Elsewhere, the Duke of Cambridge took to the official Kensington Palace Twitter account to speak of his pride in the team.

Ending the tweet with a W, he wrote: "I know how disappointed @england must feel right now but I couldn't be more proud of this team and you should hold your heads high.

"You've had an incredible #WorldCup, made history, and gave us fans something to believe in.

"We know there is more to come from this @england team."

Prime Minister Theresa May said: "Wasn't to be this time but it's been a great journey that's made the country proud. We'll be flying the flag on Saturday."