It’s been 50 years of hurt since England won a major title but Euro 2016 could be a chance to compensate, and pubs are ready to cheer our team on.

Thousands of footie fans have crossed the Channel or flown out to be part of the games, but here at home our pubs will share in the fun and excitement of the tournament.

Gillingham Football Club will be using their recently refurbished bar, renamed The Factory, to show all the England games on HD TV and serving branded guest ales with names themed around football.

“We intend to be the Euro games party zone,” said the club’s director of events Steve Ware. “The bunting has gone up and being the home of Gillingham FC we see it as a natural place for footie fans to go.”

Mike Justice, general manager of The Old Ash Tree, Chatham, said: “We’re a very strong sporting pub and everyone here is excited and we’re braced for a big turnout.

“Our customers are very optimistic that England will do well. We have a good, talented young team.”

Big TV screens will beam in the action and throughout the tournament there were will also be fundraising charity events.

No one will be short of a view either at The Crown, High Street, Rochester, which has two giant screens and six HD TVs in the sports bar plus two 50in HD screens in the main bar.

Manager Peter Kray said: “Not only are we putting up bunting of all the flags, our staff will be dressed in England kits. Hopefully England will stay in the tournament right to the end.”

Then there’s the Cricketers, in Sturdee Avenue, Gillingham, where manager Stephen McNaughton is planning an outside barbecue for all the England games. Bunting is going up inside and out and Stephen remains optimistic for England’s chances.

“We’re all geared up and in the mood to wave on England and we’re expecting a great turnout .”