IF YOU happen to be walking past the Croft Tavern near Hythe do not be alarmed by the six-foot inflatable man who will greet you outside The Son of Gary' means no harm, he is just one of the many decorations manager Jeff Hatton has adorned his pub with to celebrate the World Cup.

Jeff and his wife Susan, along with staff and customers, all joined forces to fill the pub with St George flags, bunting, balloons and the giant inflatable footballer, which customers call Jeff's best pal.

Jeff, 46, said: ""It was my idea to decorate the pub but it was a team effort everybody chipped in."

Although the pub is a sea of red and white, Jeff welcomes any nation's fans to come and enjoy the tournament.

He said: "All nationalities are welcome to join us. We just want to have a good time and enjoy the football, whichever team is playing."

Pictured are Ian Harvey, Stuart Savage, Darren Collett and Tom McKnight.

l Can you do any better than the Croft Tavern or do you have big plans to celebrate the World Cup? If so, enter the Daily Echo competition to find the most decorated pub, club, house, care or office and the winner will receive their very own World Cup goodie bag. Contact our very own World Cup girl Ushma Mistry at the Daily Echo on 023 8042 4495 or e-mail ushma.mistry@soton-echo.co.uk.

Echo pictures by Chris Moorhouse.

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