Ludlow Castle England World Cup screening praised by police

West Mercia police said 3,000 fans watched England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina at Ludlow Castle <i>(Image: West Mercia Police)</i>
West Mercia police said 3,000 fans watched England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina at Ludlow Castle (Image: West Mercia Police)
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Thousands of football fans gathered to watch England’s semi-final dreams dashed on a big screen at Ludlow Castle.

Around 3,000 supporters packed into the historic venue for the World Cup clash, hoping to see the Three Lions reach the final.

Cheers erupted when Anthony Gordon put England ahead 10 minutes into the second half.

But the mood shifted late in the game as defending champions Argentina turned the tables.

Enzo Fernandez equalised in the 85th minute, and Lautaro Martinez scored in stoppage time to secure a 2-1 win and end England’s hopes.

Despite the disappointment, police said the crowd remained good-natured throughout the evening.

A West Mercia Police spokesperson said: "Around 3,000 people gathered at Ludlow Castle to watch the football, with plenty of friendly predictions about the final score.

"The atmosphere was fantastic and, thankfully, the rivalry was all good-hearted."

Officers and staff from the Ludlow, Bishop’s Castle, Craven Arms and Church Stretton Safer Neighbourhood Teams were on duty to support event organisers and reassure residents and visitors.

The force said its presence at the event formed part of West Mercia Police’s commitment to visible neighbourhood policing, community engagement and preventing anti-social behaviour at large public gatherings.

Fans were praised for their conduct and for celebrating responsibly despite the late heartbreak on the pitch.

The screening was another major event to be held at the town centre landmark, ahead of the Live at Ludlow Castle series.

Thousands of visitors will head to the site to see acts including The Streets, Rick Astley, Richard Ashcroft and the Scissor Sisters over the next two weeks.

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