SO, we did it, or should I say those wearing the Three Lions got us to our first major final since 1966? Either way it feels like we have all played some sort of part by cheering the boys on this summer and celebrations in Bradford’s pubs provide great evidence of that.

Even if you didn’t nip out to your local boozer, England’s 2-1 victory over Denmark in the semi-final of Euro 2020 grabbed over a third of the nation’s attention. A peak of 25.8 million tuned in nationwide on ITV, a high for this tournament.

The extra time victory, courtesy of a Simon Kjaer own goal and a Harry Kane rebounded effort after his spot kick was saved, means Gareth Southgate’s men now face Italy in a mouth-watering final at Wembley on Sunday (8pm).

According to reports, the government are considering a bonus Bank Holiday Monday if England lift the trophy, now wouldn’t that be nice? It means we could see an even bigger turnout in Bradford’s fine establishments, great news for an industry hit so hard by the pandemic.

The Potting Shed in Bingley and the Ginger Goose in the City Centre were packed to the rafters on Wednesday night, full of punters experiencing tension, anxiety and intensity across the 120 minutes.

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John Rinselca, 73, and Frank Townley, 77, were both keen viewers and recall the last time England lifted a trophy.

Despite being Irish, the pair, who have lived in Bradford for decades, have always backed their neighbours to do well in the major competitions.

John said: “I remember watching the World Cup final in 1966 in black and white when I was a student in Ireland. I wanted England to win then and I want them to do well now. You have got to support the home nations.”

A former City player is also well in the mood for the big one this weekend and feels football is coming home via the identical scenario of England’s last outing.

Ian Ormondroyd, who turned out for the Bantams in two spells (1985–89) and (1995–96) and is now Chief Executive of the club’s Community Foundation, said: “It was great to win.

“We got a little bit of luck with the penalty; you would have been devastated if it was the other way round. That little bit of luck that you need we are getting in this tournament.

“Gareth has done a fantastic job and the young lads have come in to give that enthusiasm.

“Italy will be our toughest game. I am hopeful and desperate to win.

“I predict it will be 2-1. I don’t want penalties but I wouldn’t mind winning after extra time because Italy have played a lot of football this tournament.”