FOOTIE fans won’t be able to watch England play in the final of Euro 2020 on the giant screen in Castle Park due to concerns over “logistics and safety”, Colchester Council has confirmed.

Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions will play Italy at Wembley on Sunday evening in their first major competition final since 1966.

However, despite the huge interest in what is being billed as a once-in-a-generation game, Colchester Council says the game won’t be broadcast on the big screen in Castle Park.

A spokesperson said: “Reaching the final is a fantastic achievement by the England team and we have no doubt many people across the borough will want to watch the historic game on Sunday and, hopefully, cheer them on to victory.

“Sadly, however, due to the logistics and safety regulations needed to stage events like screening the match in Castle Park, there is insufficient time for us to make arrangements to show the game on Sunday.

“Many of the town’s bars and clubs, who have been impacted by Covid-19 restrictions, will be showing the game.

“We would encourage everyone, wherever they are watching the match, to get behind the team safely and responsibly and cheer them on to, hopefully, bring the trophy home.”

Leader of the council Paul Dundas added: “You have to apply to be a test event from the Government or you would have to enforce social distancing and make sure people are apart.

“It is a shame but we would be worried about Covid and public safety.”

Read more:

During the 2018 World Cup in Russia Colchester Council also decided against broadcasting games on the screen due to concerns over anti-social behaviour. Mr Dundas said the council would look into whether it might be possible during next year’s World Cup in Qatar.

He said: “Our events team is very proactive and they do look for any opportunity. I am sure the World Cup is something on their radar and I will certainly be asking them to have a look at it.”

Pubs across Colchester are in for an extremely busy night on Sunday with millions of fans across the country set to head to their favourite boozer.

David Brady, landlord of the Alma in Copford, said the pub had 120 people in for England’s win against Denmark, with Sunday set to be even busier.

He said: “We have installed two more screens in preparation. We will be fully booked without a doubt. I imagine there might be a few people ringing work on Monday morning complaining of a cold.

“It has been really amazing for getting people back in the pub, particularly those who perhaps were a bit nervous about going out again. They have realised pubs are open and safe enough to visit.”