Euro 2020: Kent prepares for England's semi-final crunch match with Denmark
Published: 06:00, 07 July 2021
Updated: 14:27, 07 July 2021
Fans in Kent are getting ready for tonight's Euro 2020 semi-final crunch match between England and Denmark.
Gareth Southgate's squad take on the Group B runners-up at Wembley Stadium which is expected to host 60,000 people.
People across the county are getting behind the Three Lions, whether it be decorating their houses in St George's flags, getting their kit on or dressing their pets up.
On the Isle of Sheppey one household in Minster, thought why have one flag, when you can have five? The Barton Hill Drive home was pictured with a host of flags hanging from every window. Although, a cheeky neighbour tried to outdo them by draping a tricolour – the national flag of Ireland – directly next to the red and white.
In Sittingbourne, it was the pups who were going football-mad and getting in the spirit.
Nine-month old Max was pictured in his "Come On England" bandana at his Grayling Court home, while Sunni, the one-year-old French Bulldog was snapped in his new England top.
In Rochester, one Danish business owner is heading to Wembley to support the Danes, with her proud English supporting husband by her side.
Kathrine Armstrong speaks to KentOnline about going to the game tonight
Kathrine Armstrong, who owns Copenhagen Blue in Rochester, admitted she is buzzing for the game.
She said: "I've lived in the UK for nearly 20 years and had loads of sports tournaments over the years with a split household, but this one is interesting as its a semi-final between the two.
"Our household is a little bit on edge, especially as we managed to get tickets for Wembley tonight. Because Danish fans can't travel from there to England because of the travel ban, UK-based Danes were able to buy tickets and we got four."
Kathrine will be going to the game with her husband and two children, who she revealed have no overwhelming loyalties to one team.
"They're both really sitting on the fence and being diplomatic," she said.
"They're just super excited to have the opportunity to go to an amazing game, so it will be fun for them because whatever the outcome they will have a team in the final.
"I think it will be buzzing at Wembley. My heart's been pumping since getting tickets at the weekend. I've been on edge.
"I'm so excited for it though and look forward to gathering and meeting all the other Danish fans in the country. There will be a lot of happy Danish people around."
As thousands flock to Wembley to watch the crucial match, millions will be watching at home, and many will be heading out to town to watch it with others.
Hundreds will be heading to Dreamland in Margate, which was at the centre of some drama last week due to chaotic scenes caught on camera during the 2-0 win over Germany.
Tickets for the hugely popular screening on Folkestone's Harbour Arm went on sale on Monday evening at 6pm and sold out within 45 seconds.
A spokesman said: "Since England progressed to the knockout rounds of Euro 2020, tickets have been selling out in record time for each match.
"On average, 20 times more people have been trying to purchase tickets than are available.
"We are sorry that some are missing out on enjoying these historic England games with us, but are equally delighted that so many people have been unable to enjoy our rolling sports coverage throughout the summer so far."
Many places in Kent have sold out of tickets for the semi-final, including Source Bar in Maidstone, which took the risky step of selling tickets for the final days before the semi-final match tonight.
The Maidstone venue was buzzing on Saturday night as England cruised past Ukraine following a 4-0 victory in Rome, and saw hundreds gather outside in the town centre singing and chanting for nearly an hour.
And even the The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall have sent out a special message to wish the England football team good luck in match.
The special good luck message for the England football team
The Royal couple posted a good luck message to the tream and said: "Good luck to the #ThreeLions from The Prince, The Duchess and the Band of the Coldstream Guards!"
How will you be watching the match tonight? Send your pictures to news@thekmgroup.co.uk.
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Sean McPolin