FROM Australia to Argentina, Chile to Croatia, the nations of the 2014 World Cup were celebrated at a multicultural street party in Lostock.

Football fever was alive and kicking in Silver Birch Close as residents themed their houses — and themselves — around the tournament’s competing countries.

On Saturday the quiet cul-de-sac came alive with music, games and food for a vibrant street party.

Families and couples from 33 homes took part, each choosing a country to represent with flags, costume and traditional food and drinks.

And with both Brahma Brazilian beer and Costa Rican coffee flowing in equal quantities, all nations were represented. Robert Walsh became Captain America for the day with wife Paula and 10-year-old daughter Holly in stars and stripes and son Daniel, aged 13, wearing a convict boiler suit.

The Walshes bought American hot dogs to the party and their home became a history lesson for passers-by with pictures of each American president hanging chronologically over their drive.

Paula said: “We have already met and chatted to so many of our neighbours. The community spirit has brought everyone together.”

Around 100 people attended the party, which also featured a penalty shoot-out, bobbing for balls, a tug-of-war, quiz and prizes for the finest fancy dress and best-dressed house. Organiser Clair Scott said the tradition had stemmed from a street party which was held in Silver Birch Close for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

She added: “All the houses look amazing and it is fantastic so many people have taken part and made such an effort.”

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