Roehampton graduate Alex Matthews declared herself honoured after she scooped the team award at Sunday’s BBC Sports Review of the Year.

Matthews, and fellow alumni, Margaret Alphonsi, were part of the England women’s rugby team which won the World Cup in August.

The championship victory was the first time England had won the tournament since 1994.

The award was presented on the BBC at a ceremony in Glasgow, and the team’s win was announced by motor racing’s Sir Jackie Stewart.

Writing on Twitter, Matthews said: “Proud to be amongst some amazing ladies for #teamoftheyear @BBCSPOTY. What a way to finish off 2014!”.

She later added: “Once again, incredible support that @Englandrugby ladies have had. Massive thank you to everyone. #honoured.”

Dr Caroline Ross, head of the department of life sciences at Roehampton, in which both women studied, said: “Winning the World Cup final was an exceptional result for both Alex and Maggie.

“They must both be on top of the world after being named among the best sportsmen and women in the country by the BBC.

“We’re so proud of them.”