England fans gather in early hours for World Cup victory

Hundreds of England football fans across the South West gathered in the early hours of Monday to watch the Three Lions progress to the World Cup quarterfinals with a 3-2 victory over Mexico. The match, originally scheduled for 01:00 BST, was delayed by an hour due to heavy rain and lightning in Mexico City, pushing the final whistle past 04:00 BST.

Pubs open late for fans

Despite the unusual kick-off time, fans flocked to pubs across the region. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced on Thursday that pubs could stay open until 05:00 BST to accommodate the match. At The Hyde Dendy in Paignton, Devon, about 300 people watched the game. Owner Xander Narvidge said he had to put on 20 additional members of staff for the event. Narvidge described a "good amount of people, great atmosphere and a good result" but hoped for a "bit more sensible kick off time" in future.

Cornwall turnout

About 350 people watched the game at the Brittania Inn in St Austell, Cornwall. Landlord Phil Lafferty called it "an incredible evening and something we have never done before." He compared it to the 2002 World Cup match against Japan, which kicked off at 06:00, saying "nothing like this. It was amazing." Lafferty noted that between 20 and 30 people left when the game was delayed, but the majority stayed. He stressed the importance of the extra trade for pubs, saying: "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."

Fan dedication

Fans showed remarkable dedication to support England. Billy Martin, in Devon, said: "I just love football, and had to come tonight. I really like my partner, but supporting England is my first love." He had booked the day off work three weeks ago in preparation. Charlie Rolfe, who had work at 06:00, planned to head straight there after the match. He said: "England's playing. I have to support my country."

England will face Norway in the quarterfinals on Saturday at 22:00 BST, looking to secure a spot in the last four.