Burnage's own Mary Fannon is back at it again - a force to be reckoned with on the streets of Manchester! For over two decades, this feisty 71-year-old has been turning her home into a sea of red and white, creating a spectacle that's got the whole neighbourhood buzzing ahead of England's big tournament. Virtually every inch of her house, garden, and even garage is plastered with an astonishing array of England football flags and memorabilia - it's a true marvel!
It all started over 20 years ago, when Mrs Fannon first donned the mantle of England's top fan. Every World Cup and European Championship has seen her collection grow to staggering levels, earning her a reputation as one of Burnage's most passionate and dedicated supporters. "I love it because it's England," she exclaims, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Come on England, get us in there lads!" - and judging by the crowds of admiring neighbours and passers-by who wave, sound their horns, and even shout her name, she's well on her way to achieving that.
But Mrs Fannon doesn't do it alone. Each year, her grandkids pitch in to help erect the vast array of flags and bunting - this time around, it was a two-day job for her trusty sidekicks. And as the tournament gets underway, Mrs Fannon is planning on watching England's opening match with her grandkids by her side (or alone, if she needs some peace!). But if they get through to the final? "I'm having people round!" - and that's exactly what you'd expect from a lifelong football enthusiast who still recalls England's 1966 World Cup triumph in vivid detail. She's got her fingers crossed for a 2-0 scoreline, with goals from Harry Kane and her beloved Marcus Rashford.
Mrs Fannon's dedication to the England cause is infectious - and it's not just her neighbours who've caught the bug. As the tournament heats up, local communities are coming together in their thousands, eager to share in the excitement and anticipation of another big campaign from the Three Lions. Who knows what this year will bring? One thing's for sure: Mary Fannon and her Burnage fans are ready - come on England!