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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an England cricket fan ask for?

Well, perhaps an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.

This is not the case during this tour, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia 3-0 up for the fourth consecutive series on their own soil.

The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters flying out for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.

Furthermore, other travel parties who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as families and friends embarking on a special expedition.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are among those affected.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "well ahead of time", hoping to witness a long-awaited triumph.

Sadly, they've observed Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their family home in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"People in the office has been teasing me about it being over for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line by the time we arrived."

Fading Positivity

Hope was abundant regarding the team's prospects of ending their 15-year wait for a triumph on Australian soil prior to the first ball.

But they are now facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The tourists - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a clean sweep.

One sibling noted the "excitement and fun" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "renewed interest in" the longest format for followers of the team.

However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Every pundit references this, but it all hinges on fortitude. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," commented another sibling.

"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'wide of off stump has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the top order."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, came the reply: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior right now."

"Necessarily, there must be more than one player that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a great time anyway," added another sibling. "Our approach is that mindset."

"Obviously it is disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have made a substantial financial commitment by now."

"We'll enjoy spending the festive season out there. Additionally, it's a new experience for us traveling during the festive period."

An educator, Katie is focused on enjoying the long-haul travel as part of her time off.

"Should the cricket disappoint, there's always golf to rely on," she finished.