FOOTBALL fans who could not make it to the World Cup can make believe they are there thanks to a desert oasis 'mini beach' inside a city bar.

The Courtyard in St Nicholas Street, Worcester now has something which most pub and bar managers in England could only dream of - its very own 'mini beach'.

For those who thought it was football fantasy, here is the picture which proves it never stopped bar managers from dreaming. The Quarter Final this weekend sees England battle on in their bid to make sure it's 'coming home' - this time.

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The bar in the city centre has now taken delivery of two tonnes of sand and, with the inflatable palm trees and beach balls, you could perhaps be forgiven for thinking you were not actually in Qatar.

Customers can now watch the England match against France on the big screen on Saturday while standing or sitting on the mini beach. It is free to go but will be standing room only.

Owner Lloyd Cox said: "We are ready for our BoozD Up Bingo beach party Friday night and for England vs France on Saturday night.

"Bingo is £10 on the door, which includes a game ticket for all bingo games, and a free drink if you are in fancy dress.

"With the football we only have standing room only, however it is free entry.

"Admission for the football is based on remaining capacity at that time, as well as usual security checks, and will be worked on a first come, first served basis."

The idea was, quite literally, to bring 'a little bit of the Qatari sand to Worcester'.  

Football fans who could not make it to Qatar for the big games can still imagine they are there by walking around in the sand, standing under inflatable palm trees and drinking cocktails out of coconuts while watching the crunch games on one of a number of big screens.r 

The idea started as part of BoozD Up Bingo nights every Friday with a Beach Party due to take place tonight (Friday, December 9).

When he first announced the plan Mr Cox said: "We are bringing in the equivalent of two tonnes of sand to fill our courtyard area, to create a mini beach.

"This does not pose a detriment to our fire safety requirements as all exits are completely clear."