Andrew Strauss' England are responsible for a "happier" and more "united" Britain today - thanks to their morale-boosting npower Test series whitewash of India.

A national survey of more than 1,000 people, conducted by 'Chance to Shine' and England sponsors Brit Insurance, has concluded Strauss and Co have helped significantly to put a smile back on British faces.

After a summer marred by rioting and looting, the research - published the day after Strauss' world-beaters completed their trouncing of India at The Oval - reports that two-thirds of the country react positively to national sporting success.

Half of respondents believe exploits such as those of Strauss' cricketers "make people more cheerful"; just over a third say sporting success "unites a country that frequently doesn't feel united" and "makes the normally fairly reserved British actually go out and celebrate".

Six out of 10 people agree English sporting victories make them feel "personally happier".

Although an uplifting sports story still comes second in popularity - as a reason to be cheerful - behind the prospect of a summer-long and nationwide heatwave, it does rank significantly above either a royal pregnancy (for the Duchess of Cambridge) or another royal wedding (for Prince Harry).

Most parents also believe victories for the national team inspire their children, and therefore the next generation of sports stars.

Chance to Shine chief executive Wasim Khan agreed: "National sporting success can really put a spring in the country's step, especially when it's in the doldrums, and inspire children to take up sport.

"Britain needs cheering up after the past month, and our young people need positive role models like Andrew Strauss."