The world’s greatest competition is back - and tonight it’s England’s turn to show what they’re made of as they kick off their group stage campaign against Croatia.
Across the country, fans are dusting off their England shirts, painting on the red and white and settling into pubs and living rooms in anticipation of the Three Lions' return to the big stage.
But few places have embraced tournament fever quite like Kirby Estate in Bermondsey, where residents have transformed the block into a sea of colour with more than 300 flags celebrating not only the home nations, but countries from around the world too.
“It’s all about community and supporting our football team,” organiser Chris Dowse, 47, told the Standard.
“Whether it be the boys or girls or whatever country you're from, we want you to open your door, we want you to come and talk to us, and that's what happens.”
The tradition began in 2012 and has since become a much-loved local custom whenever England takes part in major tournaments such as the Euros or the World Cup.
It takes around three days to raise all the flags, with even more still to come.
“It brings everyone together,” Mr Dowse said. “My next door neighbor, Martin, he's from Cameroon. He loves to come out and help us when we start to put the flags up, and it just gets everyone talking.
“Hopefully later on into the competition we'll get the big screen out, and everyone can come out and enjoy it together as an estate.”
While rising costs have meant fewer flags than in years gone by, organisers say the spirit and enthusiasm behind the display remains as strong as ever.
“This estate is hanging on to the 80s feel, where it's a community vibe. Our front doors are opposite each other, so we have to talk to our neighbors,” Mr Dowse added.
“It's a council estate. We have our moments, don't get me wrong, but we would love to see everyone do this because there's nothing stopping you.”
Flying the England flag has prompted strong reactions in recent years.
It has also become highly politicised, with some associating it with anti-immigration views and far-right nationalism.
Mr Dowse said the estate previously faced criticism for flying the flag, with some branding residents "racist" and "far-right" - something locals deny.
This year, however, he says people have been much more receptive to the tradition and the message behind it, which is celebrating football by bringing neighbours together.
“We do not get politics involved,” Mr Dowse said. “This is football, and it's just friendly banter. It's just the game, and that's what we keep it to.”
Residents said there is a “feel-good factor” when the flags are up, describing it as something fun and special that everyone can enjoy - a tradition that helps unite the community.
England will take on Croatia tonight at 9pm (BST).
The countries have shared a fierce tournament rivalry over the last decade.
Historically, England have won six of the 11 total meetings, while Croatia have won three.
Their most famous matches in recent memory are Croatia's 2-1 extra-time win in the 2018 World Cup semi-final, and England's 1-0 win at Euro 2020.
