Column: Good luck, England!

Monthly column by Alex Mayer, MP for Dunstable and Leighton Buzzard constituency.

As England prepare to step onto football’s biggest stage once again, the nation’s hopes rise with familiar intensity. Every World Cup brings a fresh wave of belief, and this year is no different. Supporters are rallying behind a squad rich with talent, experience and expectation.

It's actually been a pretty good few years to be an England fan. Gareth Southgate (who incidentally I went to school with) shaped teams that played in two European Championship finals and a World Cup semi-final.   

Can we go one step further and follow in the footsteps of the Lionesses (and Leighton Town FC's promotion)?

Three lions on a shirt…

Jules Rimet still gleaming... 

It's 60 years of hurt now. Mind you, as I mentioned in my maiden speech, that was the last time, prior to me, the town had a Labour MP. 

Never stop dreaming!

Of course, this tournament will present unique tests. With matches spread across the United States, Canada and Mexico, players will have to contend with big travel distances, extreme heat and, in some venues, the challenges of altitude.

Back home, the World Cup will be welcome news for local pubs as supporters gather to cheer on the Three Lions. And the Government has changed the rules to allow them to stay open later for key matches - so no-one will miss extra time or (heaven forbid) any penalties.

I was also visiting a local supermarket recently who told me all about their World Cup prep - apparently our buying habits completely change. Stocking up on different snacks at unusual times.

I hope this tournament will be an occasion for celebration, friendship and national pride.

And while supporters celebrate every goal, some of the animal charities I’ve spoken to have asked if we can all spare a thought for the wildlife and pets that could be startled by celebrations that involve late-night fireworks and excessive noise.

Bedfordshire Police and the Crime Commissioner has also pointed out that sadly research shows domestic abuse can also escalate during high-profile matches - regardless of whether England win, lose or draw.

Football should bring communities together, and everyone deserves to feel safe and supported throughout the tournament.

For now, though, expectation is building. Could this finally be the year that football comes home?