FOOTBALL and theology may seem worlds apart, but they will come together for a special occasion at a Suffolk cathedral next week.

St Edmundsbury Cathedral, in Bury St Edmunds, will show the World Cup final on Sunday, July 11, on a big screen in a marquee in the grounds.

Keen football supporters Canon Matthew Vernon and cathedral warden Tony Kimber came up with the idea.

Canon Vernon said: “People sing hymns at football matches, so why not watch football at a cathedral?”

Mr Kimber, who is now keen on either Spain or Brazil to win, said: “As a warden and part of the welcome team, it’s all about bringing the opportunity for new people to be part of the cathedral and to see the cathedral.”

Acting Dean of the cathedral, the Rev Michael Hampel, added that the event would be a first for the cathedral.

Mr Hampel, who is half German, had been supporting England, but he is now backing Germany all the way.

On the similarities between football and religion, he said: “The important thing is it’s about people coming together with a common interest.”

He said being a sportsman was about using the skills and talents God has given you for the good.

The event starts at 6pm and is open to those who have purchased a ticket for food.

Tickets cost �7 per person and include a fish and chip supper. For more information, contact 01284 748720 or email reception@stedscathedral.org.