The famed 17th century diarist Samuel Pepys reportedly stated that ‘The Pub is the heart of England.’ Four centuries down the line, this relationship between the people and this focal meeting place has never been more important.

When it comes to football, this bond is elevated to a whole new level. Both the pub and football were traditionally the realm of the working man, so it stands to reason that the two would be intrinsically linked. It was a common place to meet and escape the grind of the working week, where the loosening qualities of alcohol and competitive sport formed a central part of social life.

Factory workers in the 1950s would finish their Saturday shifts and venture down for the 3pm kick off, finishing the day off with a few pints at the pub nearest the ground. Fast forward to the modern day and the role of the pub has become more encompassing, with punters starting and finishing the day in the boozer, win or lose. The whole Matchday experience now centres around the cult-like realm of the public house.

Throughout the testimony of a handful of fans and punters, The Heart of England, from COPA90 Stories, tells the story of this kindred relationship between the pub, football and the people who go there. From the greatest nights of their lives to the sadness of losing this experience through the Covid-19 pandemic, The Heart of England lets the fans tell how much this place means to the them

For more videos from COPA90 Stories, visit follr.com and find your official supporters club Website.

Film By: Nick Manser, Sam Lewis, and Rory Reames