Londoners party in the sunny streets and watch Wimbledon final

 
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Londoners got together in the glorious sunshine and sweltering temperatures to see Andy Murray beat World No 1 Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon.

While the nation came to a standstill as more than 17 million tuned in across the country — the biggest TV ratings for a tennis match in a generation — thousands packed Murray Mound at the All England Club and at street parties and parks in the capital and all around the UK.

The BBC revealed today that viewing figures peaked at 17.3 million, matching the highest for a tennis match, recorded for the 1980 Wimbledon final between John McEnroe and Bjorn Borg. Last year’s final, when Murray was beaten by Roger Federer, drew 17 million viewers.

Thousands sat in the road to watch a giant screen in Battersea, while in Victoria Park, Hackney, thousands more watched on portable TV sets and smartphones, enjoying champagne and barbecue fare. Supermarkets reported a massive increase in beer, wine and burger sales.

On Murray Mound, officials had to close the area within an hour of the gates opening and fans were advised to drink plenty of water, use sun cream and wear hats.

Hannah Browne, 29, a PE teacher from Liverpool, said: “We had tickets to Court One, but weren’t going to miss this. The atmosphere was just unbelievable on the hill. I just cried at the end, we were watching history. The pressure is off him now and he can just enjoy his tennis for a long time ahead.”

Hannah Evans, 22, said: “We bought an £11 tent and started queuing at 2am. I am so glad we did. I can’t believe I was there at the end”.

Georgina Morris, 28, a design teacher from Liverpool added: “I can’t believe how many people packed on to the hill. To be part of something 77 years in the making is amazing. I’ll be able to my grandchildren I was there.”

Celebrities were quick to heap praise on the new Wimbledon champion.

Star Wars actor and fellow Scot Ewan McGregor tweeted: “Oh my God. What a match, what a player. Inspiring a Nation. Andy Murray!! Ya Beauty.” Former England striker and Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker added: “I sense @andy--murray will take a bit of beating at Sports Personality Of The Year! ”

Murray’s Davis Cup team-mate Ross Hutchins, who has spoken about the support he received from the Scot after being diagnosed with cancer, was delighted to see his friend win. Hutchins said: “I’m ecstatic. I am so pleased for him.”

London Mayor Boris Johnson wrote: “Congratulations to my one time doubles partner on his glorious Wimbledon victory!”.

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