THERE could be a frosty atmosphere in the mayor’s office at Burnley Borough Council on Monday morning after England’s World Cup opener against Italy tonight.
And mayor’s officer David Farrar says his deputy David Bristow, a staunch Italy supporter after he lived in the Mediterranean for a few years, might be better taking a week off if England are defeated.
Mr Farrar, chief officer for Burnley mayor Coun Andy Tatchell, said: “Dave likes Italian football as he lived over there and unfortunately he is a Manchester City supporter as well.
“There has been a friendly rivalry but I think he will cop for some overtime if Italy beat England!
“I am a bit worried we may end up losing but it is hard to say as it depends who turns up on the night.
“If we do win I will have to rub it in. There might be a few reminders around the building if we do.”
In Colne, restaurant owner Carlo Lionti reckons it will be a long night.
Mr Lionti, who has run Carlo’s for 30 years, said: “I am looking forward to it.
“There might be one or two tables staying behind to watch the game.
“We will have one or two Italian families coming down and some of the regulars.
“I will remain as neutral as possible under the circumstances, but it will be a good night.”
And in Burnley, staff at Walkabout in Hammerton Street have put up flags and banners as they gear up for the Three Lions’ first match.