Football fans are praying for an England win when a church throws open its doors during the World Cup quarter-final.

Holy Trinity in Sittingbourne, the only church showing the footie in Kent, is inviting watchers back to the holy building to watch the game against France on Saturday.

Mr Penfold said: "We've followed England all the way.

"We had about 30 people from all different age groups here when England won 6-2 against Iran.

"When England scored, everyone was cheering, arms up in the air. It was like being down the pub."

The church is hosting a Super Saturday event to prepare supporters for the game.

From 10.30am until 2pm there will be Christmas crafting, then from 4pm until 5.45pm there will be a Christmas movie and then kick-off will start at 7pm.

Mr Penfold said: "We're looking for God's hand to lead the England team and take them all the way against France.

"It's definitely coming home for Christmas. "

The vicar explained the atmosphere at the church has been lovely.

He said: "We've had pensioners, young people, families and people from all different ethnicities.

"We've shown all the games and even a couple of the different countries playing.

"The atmosphere has been really great.

"There's been lots of cheering, but what's really nice is the family-friendly environment."

Mr Penfold hopes to see more going to the church to watch the upcoming matches.

Among the motivations to putting the game on was to provide a warm place for people to gather during the cost of living crisis.

Mr Penfold also wanted to bring the community together with something fun and different.

Visitors are reminded it is an alcohol-free, smoking-free, family-friendly event. Under 12s must be accompanied by an adult.

The church is offering a World Cup café with soft drinks, hot drinks and snacks available.