FOOTBALL fans across north Essex raised the roof as England beat arch rivals Germany to progress to the quarter finals of Euro2020.

Millions of fans across the country were glued to their TV screens last night for the historic clash while others watched from pubs.

Prince William, Kate Middleton and their eldest child Prince George were among the 45,000 fans at Wembley Stadium.

Across north Essex and further afield publicans welcomed the influx of drinkers wanting to watch the match in company.

It meant a much-welcomed shot in the arm after losing months of business due to lockdown.

Socially distanced fans shared the ups and downs of the match celebrating the two decisive goals from Raheem Sterling and England captain Harry Kane.

Nick May, landlord of the Alma Inn, in King’s Head Street, said: “It was a great atmosphere but obviously still a bit quieter than other big games I can remember from the past.

“But still, it was the most energy that the walls of the Alma have felt for more than a year.

“I’m sure the sore heads of Wednesday morning will be relieved that beating Germany in a football tournament is a once in a lifetime occurrence.

“If the restrictions are lifted in July, I am confident we will be trading at pre-lockdown levels soon.

“Hopefully the pub will be back to being a place you can pop in and out of rather than an organised expedition.”

Fans erupted as England won, and across the town breakout songs of the unofficial anthem of Football’s Coming Home could be heard.

Witham MP and Home Secretary Priti Patel was also behind the national team tweeting her support.

While a video of Prime Minister Boris Johnson celebrating took the internet by storm.

The victory will see England play in the quarter finals in Rome on Saturday.

And it put right the wrong suffered by England manager Gareth Southgate who’s missed penalty saw England’s Euro96 end in defeat to Germany.

It was the first time England had beaten their old foes in a knock out game since 1966.