As expectant fans flock to pubs and bars across our area – a rather unusual venue is also offering the chance to watch the England team in action in the Euros.

Eastern Daily Press: The games will be shown on the large screen inside the church. PHOTO: Nick ButcherThe games will be shown on the large screen inside the church. PHOTO: Nick Butcher (Image: ©archant2016)

London Road Baptist Church in Lowestoft is showing the matches on a large indoor screen.

The family friendly event will be alcohol free – although soft drinks will be available and hot-dogs will be served at half-time.

The venue, on Kirkley Park Road, is planning to open its doors for tomorrow's match against Russia, which kicks off at 8pm, and for the game against Slovakia on Monday, June 20 – also with an 8pm kick off.

Doors will open 30 minutes before kick-off and entry is free – with further games planned if England progress in the tournament.

The idea, which is being launched for the first time, was a collaboration between Emily Twigg, youth minister, and Ashley Langner, head coach for the church football academy.

'We are opening up the church to the community as football can deliver a powerful message about sportsmanship but also in life,' Mr Langner said.

'We won't be serving alcohol or letting anyone in with alcohol for obvious reasons, but what we lose in that, we gain in spirit in other ways.

'The idea is to encourage families to come along and enjoy somewhere they may not have been able to access in the community – usually people will go to a pub or private function.'

The venue, which can seat about 100 people, has invested in new aerials to ensure they receive the relevant channels and have ensured the correct licenses and safety equipment is in place.

Nick Webb, mayor of Lowestoft, is also planning to attend if time permits – as he is also a member of the church.

'I think it's an absolutely superb idea,' he said.