World Cup fever has arrived in South Tyneside, with the opening of the Kevin Keegan Arena at Hebburn pub Dougie's Tavern.
The Blackett Street pub delighted its former regulars when it opened its doors for the first time in well over a decade as Dougie's in early 2019 and became a go-to for many football fans who flocked there to watch England games in the delayed Euro 2020 championships last summer. And, owner Norman Scott has now upped the ante for the upcoming World Cup.
A huge outdoor marquee has now been erected outside, covered from ceiling to floor with flags of all the competing countries in the Qatar tournament. And interest in Dougie's Tavern's fan zone has been heightened, thanks to the fact that it's been named after football legend and former Newcastle United manager Kevin.
READ MORE; World Cup Fan Zone announced for Newcastle
Clearly delighted by the tribute, the ex England boss headed down to Hebburn for the official opening at the end of last week. The marquee was packed to the rafters with fans as Kevin did the honours and officially opened the enclosed outdoor area, which is sure to be full on November 21, 25 and 29, when England take on Iran, USA and Wales respectively.
Dougie's shared photos of the launch on their Facebook page, to a huge reaction from their growing number of followers. Next to a photo of Kevin and Norman and a shot of a packed out marquee, they wrote: "The Official opening of the KEVIN KEEGAN World Cup arena. What a night. Now only two weeks away and we are looking forward to the world cup (with NO restrictions). See you soooooooon."
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