FOOTBALL fans are flocking to the shops to get the latest television technology in time for the World Cup.

TV and Video Direct in Knowsley Street has reported a jump in sales in the last two weeks as England supporters, as well as pubs, restaurants and other businesses, buy or rent high definition (HD) and 3D televisions. Retail manager Kiel Smith said: “Sales have really picked up in the last two weeks and it’s all because of the World Cup.

“That’s the one thing people have been asking: ‘Will it be delivered in time for the first match?’”

The World Cup will be broadcast in Freeview HD for the first time, when the tournament kicks off this Friday.

Businesses have also been renting screens to make sure employees can watch games at work — rather than taking unauthorised leave.

Sound and Vision in Higher Market Street, Farnworth, are also seeing more TV’s flying off the shelves as the World Cup gets under way.

Shop assistant, Paul Smith, said: “When the World Cup is on there is always a big increase in demand for televisions.

Especially this year with it being shown for the first time in high definition. It is good news for any electrical business.”

James Munro is from Simply Electricals in Haliwell Road, added: “We have seen a big increase in the last two weeks.”

Mark Webb is a spokesman from DSGi, the company which owns Curry’s and PC World. He says sale increases are not uncommon when the World Cup is on: “Part of the reason is that if people are thinking about upgrading their TV anyway, they see this as a good time to do so.”