COUNCIL workers in Chorley will be able to clock off and cheer on England in the World Cup - but bosses say they will have to make the time up later!

Chorley Borough Council will provide a TV in the Town Hall for workers to watch the matches. The news comes as experts warn employers to let workers watch the World Cup matches to prevent 'sickies'.

Catherine Wilson, acting head of personnel at the council, said: "If they want to watch the match they will have to clock out and then have to clock back in and make the time up.

"The World Cup is a big event, so we will take an understanding attitude."

The council's approach is mirrored by Lancashire County Council where its flexi-time scheme will allow workers to watch the matches.

Major Chorley employers are also taking an understanding approach. Lex Auto Logistics in Pilling Lane, which employs 450 workers, say they are setting up TV screens so employees can watch the England v Argentina match, and Marconi, on Carr Lane, which employs 350 workers is making arrangements to let people to watch important games.

However, providers of vital services, including Chorley and South Ribble District General Hospital and Lancashire Consabulary, said employees will work as usual, unless they take time off.