STAFF at Swindon's Honda plant were today awaiting the result of a ballot to see whether they will be allowed to watch Euro 2004 during normal working hours.

Since 2000, the Japanese car giant has shut down its machines during England games at major international tournaments.

Having seen the matches on screens in the canteen, the workers make up the 90 minutes later. But the firm has only granted the concession after balloting its 4,000 workers, who are referred to as associates.

In previous ballots, the staff have come out 60 percent in favour of football. Workers who do not wish to see football are allowed to watch videos elsewhere on the site.

l See pages 13, 46 and 47 for more Euro 2004 stories.

Honda spokeswoman Karen Winter said the result of yesterday's Euro 2004 ballot was due to be announced to staff today (WEDS).

She added: "We realise that football is the national sport, and that many of our associates would be very disappointed if they could not watch England's matches.

"That is why we hold these votes."