In pictures: England's Ashes triumph

1 of 7 The last time England won the Ashes was in 1986/87, when a touring side won in Australia to huge surprise.

2 of 7 The series started at Lords, where It went very, very wrong for the home side. Australia were easy winners by 239 runs.

3 of 7 England got back into the series at Edgbaston, snatching an amazing win by just two runs.

4 of 7 England looked on track for another win at Old Trafford, but a brilliant innings from Ricky Ponting helped his side to a draw.

5 of 7 Yet another thrilling finish at Trent Bridge, England overcoming their nerves to win the match by three wickets and take a 2-1 series lead.

6 of 7 On the last day of the series England had to bat their way through the day for survival, with Kevin Pietersen scoring a vital 158 for his side.

7 of 7 The draw at The Oval sealed a famous victory, the first Ashes series win for 18 years.