Sweden claim gold medal in cross country relay

Sweden have claimed gold in today's cross country women's relay at the Sochi Winter Olympics.

Charlotte Kalla was able to bring her country back from a distant third right at the end to secure a time of 53:02.7 and seize the gold medal in one of the tightest finishes in the history of the event.

Finland came second with a time of 53:03.2, while Germany took the bronze medal thanks to a time of 53:03.6.

In contrast, the fourth-placed finisher, France, reached the final line 45 minutes behind the Germans.

Meanwhile, much-fancied Norway, who prior to today's event had not lost a World Championship, World Cup or Olympics since 2009, finished in fifth place.