PUBS and bars across Bradford are gearing up for one of the most unusual World Cups in history as the opening match rapidly approaches.
The 2022 tournament kicks off in Qatar on Sunday, when the hosts play Ecuador at 4pm GMT.
This year's iteration is unusual in that it is taking place over winter, rather than summer, but pubs and bars across Bradford are as excited as ever.
One pub which is throwing itself fully into the festivities is The Woodman, in Manchester Road.
The inside of the building is decked out in bunting sporting the flags of the competing countries, with larger versions draped across the bar.
Punters will have a plethora of choices for watching the game too, with nine indoor screens and two outside in a heated smoking shelter, as well as the commentary being played out through speakers.
There will be eight-pint beer towers on offer to customers, as well as two-pint steins, while every beer bought during England games will earn you a raffle ticket and that could then be pulled out for a free pint when the home nation scores.
A spokesperson for The Woodman said: “We’re feeling great about the World Cup.
“I think it will cheer people up in the current situation with price rises.
“We are a sport pub and always get the cheers. Come on England!”
SALT Beer Factory, in Bingley Road, Saltaire, has some good news for those wanting to experience the matches on a big screen in a taproom.
Poppy Rushton, assistant manager at the unique bar, said: “BBC works in there now, it wasn’t working for the Euros.
“It was BBC iPlayer last time so it was a couple of minutes behind.”
There are also two medium-sized TVs in the front of the large premises, with two tables near, and all screens will have the volume on for the England games.
Ms Rushton explained people normally stand and watch in the front and it is on a first-come, first-serve basis.
She said: “We like to be a place where you turn up and if you great a great spot, fantastic.”
She added: “We’ve been busy since the moment we reopened so we’ve never really had a lull period, but we’re absolutely excited for such a big event and hopefully the lads pull their fingers out.”
The Ginger Goose, in Market Street, in Bradford city centre, will be going full throttle again, after being the scene of euphoric and unforgettable celebrations during the Semi-Final win against Denmark last year for Euro 2020.
All England’s games will be screened with volume, while those wanting to view other matches will be able to ask for them to be put on.
Luke Oliver, bar manager, said regarding games being on through the day: “To be honest, I don’t think it will change much.
“Obviously there will be through the day, it might be different with people working and stuff but the night games.”
Meanwhile, Q Gardens, in Stadium Mills, at Odsal Top will be going above and beyond once again.
Sean Lowe, managing director, said the venue now has an extra quality sound system in place, for an immersive experience, as well as a new large projector for screening the England games.
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