WORLD Cup fever could be hitting the big screen this summer.

The Vue Cinema at Middlebrook is considering offering football fans the chance to watch England's World Cup matches there.

The games could be broadcast live from Germany straight to the cinema's widescreens.

Managers say it would be a "totally new experience" and would let football fans watch football in luxury.

Ali Hanfraj, a manager at the cinema, said: "Fans would be able to watch all the football action on quality widescreens, listen to the crowds and commentators on surround sound and sit back and relax in comfortable chairs."

The World Cup screenings are still in discussion, with broadcasting and alcohol licensing issues and technical facilities being taken into consideration.

A similar plan is being considered for the new Vue multiplex in Blackburn.

Mr Hanfraj added: "Many people associate football with social drinking and we currently are not licensed to have alcohol in the cinemas, but we are deliberating over having food and, soft drinks included in ticket prices, but as yet nothing has been decided.

"Either way, we think that the World Cup coverage would be hugley welcomed and would be a successful new feature at Vue Cinemas."

It would not be the first time a cinema has screened sporting events. Red Cinema, in Salford Quays, shows some Manchester United matches as well as cricket and rugby.