IN terms of the weather, it has been an average summer. From a sporting perspective, it has been truly glorious.

Nothing can lift the mood of a nation quite like sporting success. And, at a time when England's football team is in the doldrums, the country's cricketers have given us cause to be proud.

The Ashes series of 2005 will be remembered as one of the truly great sporting events. Nail-biting finishes, outstanding characters, heroic performances, and remarkable sportsmanship have combined to create something special.

A new audience has been drawn to cricket. Men, women and children who had previously taken a cursory interest in the game, have been hooked.

The spirit in which the series has been contested, with genuine respect between two deadly rivals, is an example of how sport should be played. We hope others will follow suit and dignity replaces petulance on the sports field.

Yesterday belonged to Kevin Pietersen for his magnificent, match-winning innings. But in years to come, the series will be chiefly remembered for the force of personality of two cricketing heroes.

Shane Warne, the greatest spin bowler of all time, waved goodbye to his last Test match audience in England, while Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff burst through the door of cricket's hall of fame. They have been the real stars of a summer that will live in the memory for a very long time.

Congratulations to England on a job extremely well done. The Aussies love to call us Whingeing Poms. Winning Poms has a much nicer ring to it.