STORES report a roaring trade in preparation for tonight's vital Euro 2004 clash, which pits England against Switzerland.

As Our Lads are hoping to make cheese of the Swiss, Swindonians are rushing to supermarkets to stock up on beer and snacks.

According to Mike Doidge, manager of Asda on the Orbital Retail Park, many plan to spark up a barbecue before the 5pm kick-off.

He said: "We are shifting a lot of our barbecue lines at the moment, as well as beers, crisps and chocolate."

The tournament, which kicked-off last Saturday, is also seeing a wave of patriotism with the store selling unprecedented numbers of flags and other official merchandise.

"Euro 2004 is good for the country as well as the sales figures," added Mr Doidge.

"It's great there's a real atmosphere here and that's good news for everyone."

Mike Daniel, manager of Tesco in Octotal Way, agreed.

"We are seeing the biggest sales since Christmas without a shadow of a doubt," he said.

"This store has noticed a huge increase in sales of wine, beer and snacks since the football started.

"It's a combination of nice, hot weather and the football."

With all the games kicking off around teatime, Mr Daniel reckons fans are showing the red card to traditional round-the-table meals.

He said: "Most people either be enjoying a slice of pizza and a beer around the telly or a barbecue before the game.

"It's great to see this level of patriotism everyone is getting on board, including women who seem to be showing a big interest in this tournament."

Keith Smitten, supervisor at the Co-op in High Street, Old Town, said customers are snapping up special offers on booze.

"A competition like this is always good for business, we saw it in the 2002 World Cup." he said.

"The excellent weather makes it even better. The timing too couldn't be better.

"People will arrive home just in time to catch the start of the game."

And as for predictions, all three reckon David Beckham and co will pull out all the stops to secure a place in the next round.

Kevin Shoesmith