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Kent's biggest World Cup clashes

While most of us are still celebrating England's win against Colombia, this Saturday's match will clash with some major Kent events.

But, don't cancel your plans yet - plenty of organisers have been busy making sure you can watch England go head-to-head with Sweden wherever you are.

However, things aren't that simple for bride-to-be Demelza Hussey from Margate, whose wedding day is going to clash with the big event.

Sam, Demelza and baby (2900916)
Sam, Demelza and baby (2900916)

Demelza, 40, who will be marrying fiance Sam Bennett, 33, may have to wait to hear her father's speech, as he is refusing to miss even a second of the action.

With speeches due to be given at 3.30pm at the reception at Dreamland, ex-professional football player Malcolm Hussey says he will be watching England clash with Sweden instead.

He said: "Well, we've done a survey of the men and at the moment 99% would rather watch the game than do the speeches.

"Is anyone going to be interested in what anyone is saying when England are playing Sweden?

"It's one hell of a clash - that's all I can say."

Malcom Hussey and Demelza's son (2900914)
Malcom Hussey and Demelza's son (2900914)

The 72-year-old is not your average football fanatic - he played for West Ham back in the 1960s and even had a dream ticket to see England's most iconic win to date at the 1966 World Cup final.

He said: "I was at the 1966 World Cup final, because as I was at West Ham we were able to get tickets. I was 20 at the time.

"I just think the World Cup is great. It's a lift for the country, a lift for the people and obviously it's a boost for all the bars and pubs."

Mum-of-one Miss Hussey, who is celebrating her 40th birthday today, is desperately trying to rearrange timings to keep everyone happy.

She said: "I think we might have to have the speeches at half-time."

"We are having the reception at Dreamland, who have said they will live-stream the football for us in the VIP huts we have booked.

"I really hope England win - I don't want it to ruin the atmosphere if we lose."

Meanwhile Zoe Springett from Leybourne is tying the knot with partner James in Whitstable on Saturday.

The service is at 1.30pm so will be over before the England game kicks off, but the couple have decided to let fans watch the game on their mobile phones during the reception.

The Kent County Show, which also clashes with the game, will be installing screens in five pop-up fan zones across the showground so visitors can still be part of the action.

The zones will be located in the woodland area, main gate bar, Cornwallis room, members area and the bar near the show office.

Kent County Showground map
Kent County Showground map

All other activities at the event will continue as planned - for more information, click here

Celebrity chef Tom Kerridge. Picture: Andrew Hayes-Watkins
Celebrity chef Tom Kerridge. Picture: Andrew Hayes-Watkins

Pub in the Park organisers are also keen to ensure fans can combine their love of music, food and football.

The match will be screened on Saturday, fitting in with the relaxed feel of the festival, organised by celebrity chef, Tom Kerridge.

For more information on the event, which takes place in Tunbridge Wells this weekend, click here

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