World Cup fever brings the nation to a halt

In airports, shopping complexes, amusement parks and town centres at precisely 10.54am yesterday, crowds massed around giant television screens erupted with joy as England scored their first goal of the 2002 World Cup.

By contrast, roads across the country, initially busier than on a normal Sunday, fell silent as fans stopped to watch the game. "We even had very few police force's calling in, which would indicate they were a bit preoccupied as well," a spokesman for AA Roadwatch said.

At Gatwick airport, crowds gathered around pub televisions – as well as a specially set-up screen in the departure lounge – to watch the match.

"When England scored the first goal, there was such a roar it must have frightened other people who weren't watching it," said Dennis Teague, manager of terminal operations.

In case anyone had happened to miss the jubilation, Mr Teague then announced the goal on the airport public-address system.

He did not, however, feel it was necessary to do the same when Sweden scored. "I am afraid I am bit biased," Mr Teague joked.

At Alton Towers, packed with 10,000 visitors, almost 600 fans gathered around special big screens. "When England scored you could hear the roar right across the park," Liz Greenwood, a spokeswoman, said.

Brent Cross shopping centre in north London also fell quiet, apart from the cheers of a few loyal fans. "The only shops that seemed to be doing any trade were those serving ladies of the older generation," said Tony Jack, the duty manager.

Even the Royal Family did not miss out on the moment, despite attending a jubilee church service of thanksgiving at St Mary's in Swansea. The Bishop of Swansea and Brecon, the Right Reverend Anthony Pierce, interrupted his sermon to update Princes Charles, Harry and William and the assembled congregants on the goal.