THE father of England rugby hero Jonny Wilkinson revealed yesterday how he walked away from the game minutes before his son scored the drop goal that won the World Cup.

Phil Wilkinson, who has just flown back from Australia, left his seat in the crowd because he could not stand the tension.

Speaking from his home near Corbridge, Northumberland, he put his actions down to simply "being a parent".

Mr Wilkinson retreated to an area beneath the stands at the Sydney stadium where he saw his son's cup-winning kick on television.

Meanwhile, his wife Philippa - who had stayed at home in England and could not bear to watch any of the game - had been shopping at a Tesco store in Newcastle.

"It was just the total pressure," said Mr Wilkinson. "It was a feeling that you are there but you can't do anything to change anything.

"You have an insight more than any normal fan as to what's involved."

The team - with the Webb Ellis trophy in its own seat - was due at Heathrow at 4.55am today aboard BA16 "Sweet Chariot" - named in their honour.

Downing Street said last night that the Rugby Football Union would be consulted before the celebration details were decided, although it was confirmed there would be a reception at Number 10.

Dee McIntosh, of the RFU, said: "We certainly want to give the England fans every opportunity to see the players."

A parade is likely to be held some time in early December in London.

Meanwhile, Newcastle City Council leader Tony Flynn is to propose awarding 24-year-old Wilkinson the freedom of the city.

Surrey-born Wilkinson, who has played all of his professional career with Newcastle Falcons, will join such previous sporting recipients as Alan Shearer and Jonathan Edwards.