Fans Across Devon and Cornwall Watch England's World Cup Victory
Football supporters throughout Devon and Cornwall gathered in large numbers during the early hours of Monday morning to watch England advance in the World Cup.
The Three Lions' last-16 match against Mexico, held in Mexico City, was originally scheduled for 01:00 BST on Monday (18:00 local time). However, the kick-off was postponed by an hour to 02:00 BST due to heavy rain and lightning in the area.
Despite the unusual timing, fans filled pubs across the South West region to witness the match, which featured standout performances from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, culminating in a 3-2 victory for England.
Approximately 300 spectators gathered at The Hyde Dendy in Paignton, Devon, to watch the game, which concluded after 04:00 BST.
Supporters in Devon celebrated England's win over Mexico at 04:00 BST.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced on Thursday that pubs would be permitted to remain open until 05:00 BST to accommodate the late finish.
Xander Narvidge, owner of The Hyde Dendy, stated that he had to employ 20 additional staff members for the event.
"There was a good amount of people, great atmosphere and a good result," Narvidge said, adding he hoped for "a bit more sensible kick off time."
England is set to face Norway in the quarter-finals on Saturday at 22:00 BST, aiming to secure a place in the semi-finals.
In Cornwall, about 350 people watched the match at the Brittania Inn in St Austell.
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Landlord Phil Lafferty described the evening as "an incredible evening and something we have never done before." He compared it to the 2002 World Cup match in Japan, which started at 06:00 BST, but noted this experience was "amazing."
"Japan in 2002 was something else, playing at 06:00, but nothing like this. It was amazing."
Lafferty mentioned that while 20 to 30 people left after the delay, most attendees remained, unwilling to miss the opportunity to support the team.
"The whole support was incredible," he said. "It was a really good turnout and a fantastic atmosphere."
He emphasized the financial importance of the event for pubs.
"The trade has been good and of course it buys us a pass to the next round next Saturday, which is a real money spinner with a 10 o'clock in the evening game. We need it - the industry needs it."
In Devon, fan Billy Martin expressed his passion for football.
"I just love football, and had to come tonight. I really like my partner, but supporting England is my first love."
Martin also noted that he had booked the day off work three weeks in advance to watch the match.
Charlie Rolfe, another fan, said he planned to go to work at 06:00 immediately after the game.
"England's playing. I have to support my country."
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