Tickets for final at Harbour Arm to be issued via random ballot
Published: 09:54, 09 July 2021
Updated: 15:27, 09 July 2021
Tickets to watch England v Italy in the Euro final on the big screen in Kent will now be allocated via a random ballot.
The match on Sunday is the first time ever the Three Lions have reached the final of the European Champions, and it is their first appearance in a major tournament final since 1966.
It comes as Gareth Southgate's team beat Denmark 2-1 in the semi final on Wednesday.
The Folkestone Harbour Arm has been showing every match on their outdoor big screen since the Euros kicked off last month.
While most games have been free to watch, the England games have been ticketed.
Once released, those tickets have sold out in seconds each time as fans scramble to ensure their spot at the popular venue.
Now, bosses have decided to change the way people can buy tickets.
Fans will now have to enter a ballot, with successful applicants being picked at random.
This is to ensure "everyone has an equal chance of securing tickets".
A spokesman for Folkestone Harbour Arm said: "It is tantalisingly close. The Three Lions have already made history and are now on the cusp of winning Euro 2020.
"We have been incredibly honoured to be able to screen every single match.
"Since the knockout rounds, tickets for every game have sold out in a matter of seconds.
"Whilst this is incredibly exciting and we’re delighted so many people want to enjoy the Euro games with us, we are conscious that this has meant many people missing out.
"That is why, ahead of this historic final, we are changing how you purchase tickets.
"We can confirm that tickets will now be allocated via a random ballot, so everyone has an equal chance of securing tickets."
The ballot is open until 6pm tonight (Friday).
You can only enter once and successful applicants will be contacted by phone to process their payment between 6pm and 7pm tonight.
The spokesman added: "It is incredibly important that the mobile number you include when applying will be available to take a call at this time.
"If you miss your call, your ticket will be reallocated. We will not be recalling.
"If you have not heard from us by 7:30pm on Friday, July 9, your bid has unfortunately been unsuccessful."
Tickets will cost £10 per head for tables of 4, 5 and 6.
To enter, visit here.
One Folkestone company, Sleeping Giants Media, has already confirmed it will give its staff Monday morning off work, even if England win or lose at the final on Sunday.
Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone
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Sam Williams