>>>
>>>More seriously, isn't England part of Europe even though it isn't on the continent?
>>
>>My geography isn't what it used to be, but I believe England is part of the UK, which in turn is part of Europe - even though it's not part of the mainland.
>>
>>Nicholas can correct me if I'm wrong - I'm sure he can sort it out
>
>Pretty much correct. If you wanted to be pedantic England is part of Gt. Britain which is part of the UK :-}

England has never been part of Europe... at least not in spirit. ;)