Football fans sing to a holy tune

It was a friendly fixture if ever there was one. For the thousands of supporters who turned out at yesterday's match at Everton Football Club in Liverpool were all cheering on the same side.

And what is more, they were singing hymns. It was, in fact, a recording of BBC1's Songs of Praise, entitled "Mersey Glory" and set for broadcast on 18 May. Among the hymns sung from the terraces were Abide with Me, Mine eyes have seen the Glory, and Amazing Grace. It was the programme's second fixture at a football club; the first was held in September 1994 at Old Trafford, home to Manchester United.