Hungry England football fans starved of success on the pitch and in the kitchen could have cause for a double celebration this summer.

The Blue Bicycle restaurant, in Fossgate, York, is offering all diners during the World Cup finals a chance of free food and drink.

Should England win the tournament, which kicks off on June 10, those who have wined and dined at the French-style restaurant and kept their receipts will be reimbursed.

If Shearer and co were to lift the trophy, it would mean the restaurant forking out a whopping £50,000 to its more than satisfied customers.

But co-owners David Rose and Sarah Brownbridge have cooked up a cunning plan to avert any threat of bankruptcy.

David has put a big bet on with a local bookies for England to actually win the trophy, therefore offsetting any losses in the free food and drink offer.

So, if the miracle happens and Gazza is shedding tears of joy come July 12, it won't just be Blue Bicycle customers celebrating. As David explained: "We really want England to win and are definitely committed England fans."

David said the restaurant is now stocking up on Krug champagne, at £100 a bottle, for those wanting to splash out.

He admits the free food and drink offer is aimed at boosting business during the World Cup, when people are more likely to feast on football than food.

He got the idea after hearing a radio programme describe the upcoming festival of football as "a big black hole" for London's top restaurants.

"It got me thinking," he said. "At least if people eat here they've got a chance of getting their money back."

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