As England face off against Spain in Sunday's Euro 2024 final, they will be cheered on by supporters from their strongest bastion - a Sunderland care home.

Margaret, a resident at Paddock Stile Manor in Houghton-le-Spring is grandmother to England keeper Jordan Pickford and is leading the line at the home.

Pickford sent his grandmother an England shirt with his name and number, which she proudly sports on match days.

Resident excitement extends throughout the care home, which has been a hub of anticipation as the tournament progressed.

The home is said to be 'buzzing' with anticipation as the final approaches.

(Image: PA)

At other care homes that Orchard manages corridors have been transformed with handmade Union Flags, while another in Sunderland has been decorated with flags, football graphics and posters.

The decorations have been created with the residents' involvement, adding a personal touch to the proceedings.

Hayden Knight, CEO at Orchard Care Homes, said: "Our residents and colleagues have had a lot of fun cheering on the England lads as they make their way through to the finals.

"We all very much hope they can go all the way and bring the silverware home.

"No one will be cheering louder than the people at our 23 homes!"

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Pickford has played a pivotal role in England's journey to the final, saving a penalty in the quarter-final shootout win over Switzerland as The Echo's Scott Wilson praised the "methodical way in which the Wearsider prepares for each spot-kick, subtly unnerving his opponent."

England play Spain in Berlin on Sunday at 8pm and will hope they can be the first men's team from the country to win the Euros.