Despite a disappointing final result, pub landlords in mid Norfolk have said they were "blown away" by the support the public has shown for the Lionesses as they reached the World Cup final.
Pubs in Dereham and Fakenham welcomed hundreds of football fans hoping to see the England win a football World Cup for the first time in 57 years.
England were beaten 1-0, thanks to a strike from Spain’s Olga Carmona in the first half, and Mary Earps’ penalty save in the second half proving to be in vain.
Paul Sandford, landlord at the Railway Tavern in Dereham, said: “In the build-up to the game our phone was like a hotline with people asking what time we were opening and could they reserve seats, so we knew it was going to be a busy one.
“We sold plenty of hot drinks and sold out of bacon butties, whole families turned out to watch all wearing their colours and cheering the Lionesses on.
“The atmosphere was electric with around 160 people of all ages in attendance. The scoreline was a disappointment but the lift the Lionesses have given the country women’s football and the hospitality industry a real boost.”
Kevin Black, the landlord at the Henry IV pub in Fakenham, said: “Not the result we all wanted, our customers and staff kicked every ball virtually with the Lionesses and celebrated every goal and game on the journey, amazing team performance and achievement from our players to almost bring football home.”
Alie May-Hannam, landlady at the Crown in Fakenham, said they were also very busy with four screens showing the game.
“We were all super proud of the Lionesses,” she added.
“It was good for business, the atmosphere was electric. We continued the rest of the afternoon with 'feel good music' followed by karaoke.
"It was a brilliant day where everyone came together.”
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