FOOTBALL fans with a penchant for a pint could bag themselves a free England shirt from a Colchester pub – but only if they use a secret codeword.

The Kings Arms, in Crouch Street, are giving away a selection of brand new England shirts, which the likes of Harry Kane will be wearing at the Qatar World Cup.

The white and blue home strips, each worth more than £70, will be giving out at the watering hole during the national team’s opening match against Iran on Monday.

All customers have to do to secure their free top is be one of the first punters through the door to buy a drink and say the codeword ‘GK shirt giveaway’.

The competition, spearheaded by Greene King, follows a report which found nearly half of sports fans in the UK believe pubs should show more women’s sports.

According to national research, nearly a third of football fans say they’re more likely to watch the upcoming men’s tournament due to the Lionesses’ Euros success.

 Karen Bosher, managing director for premium and urban Pubs at Greene King, said: “Our pubs have such an important role to play in major football tournaments.

“They provide a space for fans to show their support and come together as a community. 

“It doesn’t matter if you’re wearing England colours from head to toe, or if you’re just looking for a casual drink with your friends while you watch the match.

“Our pubs are inclusive spaces for everyone during the upcoming tournament.”