Ref. 31004-10FANS preferring a booze-free setting to watch Our Boys in Euro 2004 action tonight could do a lot worse than visit the town's Salvation Army.

The doors to the army's Fleet Street community centre will be open from 7pm to allow fans to enjoy the game in safety, without the fear of booze-fuelled violence.

And instead of the traditional half-time pint and packet of crisps, fans can look forward to a pie and pop.

The organiser, father-of-two Jonathan Chappell, 38, believes Swindon is short of alternative places to watch big sporting events.

"I am a father myself and I know how intimidating watching football in a pub can sometimes be," he said.

"We want to provide a safe place for dads and their lads to watch the football together.

"In some cases it's not always possible to take younger children into bars particularly when it's busy."

Football-fan Mr Chappell struck on the idea a couple of weeks ago.

And so far fans seem to be voting with their feet.

Around 60 fans ranging in age from toddlers to pensioners chose the centre to watch England's opening game against France.

And on Thursday more than 70 fans crammed around the big screen to witness the 3-0 hammering of the Swiss.

Tonight, Mr Chappell is expecting around 100 to pop in.

He said: "Although we do not have booze, it's going to be just as noisy here as it will be in a pub. The atmosphere will be great."

And to ensure everyone is fired up before kick-off, volunteers plan to screen some of England's best-ever goals.

"That should get them in the mood," he added.

Although a proud Welshman, Mr Chappell is hoping skipper David Beckham will lead the lads to victory.

"My wife, children, and most of my friends are Swindon born and bred, so I have no choice but to follow England, " he laughed.

"When Wales qualify I'll drag them along to the community centre and force them to watch it."

As for predictions, Mr Chappell's money is on another 3-0 victory.

"They opened well against France but threw it all away in the final few minutes due to a lapse in concentration.

"But things were much better against Switzerland and if we play like that again there shouldn't be any problems," he said.

Kevin Shoesmith