A SCHOOL class has sent letters to the England football team after their Euro 2020 loss.

The year 4 class at Coates Lane Primary School in Barnoldswick penned the letters containing condolences to the team.

Following the match, in which England lost to Italy on penalties, Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka, who missed their spot-kicks, were subject to racial abuse on social media.

Headteacher, Sarah White said: “After the Euros final on Sunday night, the children came to school wanting to share their positive affirmations with the England team after their defeat against Italy.

“The children recognised how disappointed the team would be but also wanted them to know how proud we are of them and how much we respect their hard work, dedication and ability to bring our country together.

“We stand together with the team in celebration of what they have achieved and wanted them to know that although they didn’t win the match, they are still winners in our eyes.”

One of the letters, by pupil Frankie Smith, reads: “Dear Mr Southgate and the team.

"I am writing to you to say you played brilliantly against the Italians on Sunday.

"It was a tough match and had to go to penalties because it was so close.

"I want to send my appreciation for all of you.

"Shaw scored the first goal and it was an amazing one.

"Saka you stepped up for the penalty and tried your hardest.

"Kane you're the captain and took the first penalty and like we all expected you scored.

"Sterling you're a huge part of the team and do amazing in the field.

"Southgate you drive the team to almost victory and are a spectacular manager/coach.

"We are all very proud of you all, that’s including millions of fans waving the England flag.

“You have worked brilliantly as a whole team and we have enjoyed watching you play like this.

“Don’t give up, keep trying and I’m sure you’ll win the next one.”

A second letter, penned by George Entwistle said: "Dear Mr Sterling.

"I am writing to you to say sorry that you came so close to winning the European Championship.

"I am very proud of you and how well you have played throughout all the matches. It is still an achievement to come second.

"You worked hard and scored lots of goals.

"You always tried your best and gave 100 per cent effort at all times.

"You worked brilliantly as a team and your passing was really good.

"I really loved to see you having fun and scoring.

"Don't give up, keep trying and I'm sure you'll win the next one."

A third letter by Isabel said: "Dear England football team.

"I am writing to you to say sorry that you came so close to win the European Championships.

"We are all really proud of you - second place is still a brilliant achievement.

"You all tried your best and gave 100 per cent and got further than any other England team before.

"You have worked brilliantly as a team; millions of fans have loved seeing you play and have lots and lots of fun on the pitch.

"Don't give up, keep trying and I'm sure you'll win the next one."

The fourth letter, by Joshua, reads: "Dear the England squad

"I am writing to say that I am so proud of all of you.

"You have all worked really really hard - also you got second place which is a brilliant achievement.

"Coming second in the European Championship, here are some of the reasons why I am so proud of you.

"You all tried your best and gave 100 per cent.

"You got further than any other England team has before.

"Millions of fans have loved seeing you play and have fun on the pitch.

"Don't give up, keep trying and I'm sure you'll win the next one."