THE ITALIAN soccer squad challenging for the Euro 96 championships have found a couple of unlikely team members - in Darwen!

Staunch Italian supporters Claudio Vignali and his pal Pat Ferro will be flying the flag for their "home" country in more ways than one.

They have joined the national team for two weeks to act as interpreters and drivers and Mr Vignali has hoisted a 30ft green, white and red Italian flag outside his home in Hawkshaw Avenue during the tournament.

"It's a real privilege to be escorting our home side during their visit to England," said Mr Vignali

"We may be keen Blackburn Rovers supporters but when it comes to internationals our true loyalties will always lie with the Italians."

The opportunity to join the team arose when one of Mr Vignali's Italian students at Manchester Metropolitan University revealed helpers were needed at the team's base in Sandbach, Cheshire.

The men are already renowned for their football antics in Darwen after they organised a massive football fiesta for the strong Italian community during the 1994 World Cup.

Mr Vignali came to England with his family when he was a child and he has always been a keen football fan.

How do they rate the Italians' chances in the championships? "They're a very good side. as they proved that this week when they beat Russia 2-1."

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