Pub bosses are gearing up for what could be the biggest sporting event of an Island's history.

Sheppey United feature in the Isthmian South East division - the eighth tier of England's football pyramid.

Yet it is their cup exploits which have been hitting the headlines this season, with the non-league outfit featuring in the FA Cup first round proper for the first time in their history.

They host League Two outfit Walsall at 7.45pm this evening - live on ITV - for the chance to progress to the second round and scoop more than £40,000 in prize money alone.

If they triumph, it will be the first time the Ites, who are also the lowest-ranked side left in the competition, has achieved the feat since they were formed back in 1890.

For many shop traders, such an occasion has brought a buzz of excitement to their venues.

Pub landlords Jo and Terry Ronayne, who run The Highlander in Minster High Street just two miles away from Sheppey United's Holm Park, are ready for an exciting night.

Jo said: “We have flags up supporting the team, and are expecting quite a good turnout here.

"Some of the players often come here too, and we have the game being shown on six TVs at the pub.

"So we're really excited, and hopefully it puts the Island on the map as we're really proud of the history the club has created.

"There are flags up everywhere inside, so with the game on a Friday night it's the perfect time for it to happen.

"We're expecting a busy day time too before it even starts."

Husband Terry added: "It's going to be brilliant, great for the Island and great for business as well."

The match has already sold its allocation of tickets to supporters - who will be attending a ground with a capacity of just 1,400.

With turnstiles receipts and around £50,000 for a live broadcast also on the cards, the club could reap the rewards of a six-figure turnover given its previous wins in the competition - with a replay also on the cards should the result be a draw.

However, like The Highlander, other watering holes are doing things slightly differently to normal.

A spokesman for The Heritage, in Halfway, added: "We're a micropub so can seat just about 30 people in total.

"But we're opening at 3pm instead of our normal 5pm, so people can come in and have a drink.

"We also know the gates open earlier for those attending the game tonight.

"In terms of the match, it's a cup game as well so of course anything can happen."

Meanwhile Rachel, who works at The Belle and Lion in Sheerness High Street, said: "We'll be showing the game on our TV at the front of the pub.

"We're expecting things to be slightly busier and for trade to pick up then.

"As we're next to the train station, we think some Walsall fans will be coming in too.

"There are some posters and supporters' scarves inside, which we don't tend to do [normally] because of where we are."

Yet it is not just eateries and taverns who are getting in on the action.

Party and entertainment business owner, Hollie Law, who creates novelty and personalised gifts, says the match being on the horizon has also been great for her side hustle, Candy Creations Kent.

The 37-year-old recruitment consultant explained: "It has been fantastic for business.

"We have sold 200 sweet cones to Sheppey United and so far around 70 popcorn bags.

"It's nice to see so many businesses in the community getting involved."

Queenborough's The Old House at Home has also prepared themselves and are showing the game live, and are urging locals to come and enjoy the action.