Fans descend on Volgograd ahead of England's World Cup opener

Anticipation of England's World Cup kick-off was building in the city of Volgograd on Monday.

Fans, many of whom had long-winded and expensive journeys, were still arriving in the city, formerly known as Stalingrad.

England manager Gareth Southgate spoke of the history of the place and "very strong" ties between Britain and Russia on Sunday, and this was marked by England fans who laid a wreath at the city's memorial park.

The group, along with deputy British ambassador Lindsay Skoll, gathered in the Hall of Military Glory at Mamayev Kurgan.