Football fans across the South West came out in the their numbers in the early hours to watch England progress in the World Cup.
The Three Lions’ last-16 tie against Mexico in Mexico City was scheduled to start at 01:00 BST on Monday (18:00 local time) but kick off was delayed an hour until 02:00 BST due to heavy rain and lightning.
Despite the unusual early kick off time, fans flocked to pubs across the region to watch the match, which saw Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane play starring roles in a 3-2 England victory.
They included about 300 people watching the game at The Hyde Dendy in Paignton, Devon, despite the game not finishing until gone 04:00.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced on Thursday that pubs could stay open until 05:00 BST.
Xander Narvidge, the pub’s owner, said he had to put on 20 additional members of staff for the game.
Narvidge said there was a “good amount of people, great atmosphere and a good result” but hoped for a “bit more sensible kick off time”.
England will face Norway in the quarterfinals on Saturday at 22:00 BST, looking to secure a spot in the last four.
About 350 people watched the game at the Brittania Inn in St Austell, Cornwall.
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Landlord Phil Lafferty said it was “an incredible evening and something we have never done before”.
He said: “Japan in 2002 was something else, playing at 06:00, but nothing like this. It was amazing.”
He said between 20 to 30 people left once the game was delayed but the majority of “people did not want to miss this opportunity, the whole support was incredible”.
He said it was a “really good turnout and a fantastic atmosphere”.
In Devon, fan Billy Martin said: ‘I just love football, and had to come tonight.
“I really like my partner, but supporting England is my first love.”
He said he had booked the day off work three weeks ago in preparation.
Charlie Rolfe said he had work at 06:00 and planned to head straight there after the match.
He said: “England’s playing. I have to support my country.”
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