Channel 4 will show England’s 1966 World Cup final victory over West Germany

England supporters will be able to prepare for this Sunday’s Euro 2020 final in perfect fashion by watching the Three Lions’ greatest ever triumph at the 1966 World Cup in colour for the first time.

The 4-2 victory against West Germany sealed the only trophy in England’s long history in international football, although Gareth Southgate‘s current crop also have the chance to make history when they face Italy. 

And to gear up the nation for the date with destiny, Channel 4 have revealed they will show the 1966 classic in all its glory on Saturday.

The broadcaster claim this is the first ever screening of its type, and say that the original black and white footage has been ‘restored and colourised’ by a production company working with experts worldwide.

Eager viewers will gather around their TV screens for the grand spectacle at 5.40pm, with every twist and turn from the old Wembley chosen for primetime. 

Sir Geoff Hurst, now aged 79, netted the most famous hat-trick in the history of football and stole the show on the day – and the late Martin Peters also scored.

It was also Hurst who sparked commentator Kenneth Wolstenholme to say his iconic ‘they think it’s all over – it is now’ line – and all the other memories are set to come flooding back for those old enough to have seen the final the first time.

Channel 4 have broadcast the fixture before. It was shown last June in black and white, and the event supported the fundraising efforts of the National Emergencies Trust’s Coronavirus Appeal during the first lockdown.

More to follow.