In a role reversal of the senior fixture at the Millennium Stadium, Wales went into the fixture with a 100 per cent record of four wins from four and a Grand Slam in their sights, with England looking to spoil the party and take the RBS 6 Nations title courtesy of point’s difference.

Hunter, who will now depart the England set-up to take a coaching role with Premiership Exeter Chiefs, said: “It’s a massive achievement and the guys deserve all the credit.

“They’re a hard working group and this trophy is their reward for the work that they have put in.

“Wales gave it a real go and full credit to them, we never felt comfortable.”

With England taking the title and Wales second spot, it was left to Ireland and Scotland to battle it out for third position.

Ireland eventually took that honour thanks to a last-gasp 25-25 draw with Italy, while Scotland slumped to a 13-10 loss against France in Brive.

Rory Scholes' late converted try capped a remarkable comeback for Ireland, who romped back from 15 points down with 25 minutes remaining to sneak the draw, which ensures Italy finish bottom of the table.

Tries from Alain Moriconi and Michele Campagnaro in the opening seven minutes had given Italy a flying start and while they ran in four tries in total, they could not withstand Ireland's late pressure at Stadio di Avezzano.

Meanwhile, France finished in fifth position in the table after they ground out a narrow win against Scotland; despite the win it capped a forgettable RBS 6 Nations for the French men in the Under-20 and also senior competition.

A try and a drop goal from fly-half Enzo Selponi saw France defeat Scotland 13-10 as they battled back from trailing 10-3 at half-time to end their campaign on a high.