England game being shown in new fan zone for Torquay
The final matches in the World Cup are being screen at Abbey Park
A family-friendly England Fan Zone opens in Torquay's Abbey Park today - ahead of England against Norway in the World Cup.
Screenings are planned from the Quarter-Finals, with the possibility of a Semi-Final event on Wednesday 15 July, should England win the game against Norway.
The Quarter-Final event will open at 2pm, offering live music, family entertainment, mini football pitches, games and activities ahead of the expected 10pm kick-off. Last entry will be at 10:30pm.
Cllr Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events and Corporate Services at Torbay Council said: “It’s great to see local businesses working collaboratively to deliver an event like this for Torbay.
"The fan zone will add to the wonderful vibrant atmosphere I’m seeing across the bay during the tournament in our local bars and pubs. The watch party in Abbey Park, gives residents and visitors even more opportunities to come together and enjoy the games in a welcoming, community setting.”
Event Organiser, Alnardo Folloni said: “We’re really excited to bring this fan zone to Abbey Park and create a fantastic, family-friendly space where the community can come together to support England.
"There’s been a real appetite locally for outdoor watch events, and we’re proud to be working with partners and the Torbay Council teams to deliver something that’s safe, well-managed and enjoyable for everyone.”
Led by The Foundry, The Apple & Parrot, and Offshore Bar & Restaurant, the initiative follows public demand for more outdoor community watch events during major sporting tournaments. The fan zone will host around 1,500 people for England’s knockout stage matches, building towards the World Cup Final on Sunday 19 July.