SOCCER-mad boss David Speakman is making sure his staff enjoy the World Cup this summer.

Mr Speakman, who founded Travel Counsellors in 1994, is installing a video screen and organising flags and bunting in the "cafe bar" area which is due to be created in the company's headquarters building in Churchgate, Bolton.

The 73 people who work there will be able to watch World Cup matches in Japan and South Korea with the firm's blessing.

Mr Speakman said: "We think we are enlightened employers.

"The staff are conscientious and we think it is a two-way street."

Employees who watched the game would not be expected to make up the time.

Mr Speakman, a Bolton Wanderers fan for 47 years, said breakfasts and lunches would be provided in the Starbucks-style coffee lounge which would remain for staff use after the World Cup.

Marketing Manager Caroline Bevington said: "We are making it accessible for people so that they do not have to book a day off or be sick."

She said the office would be open in time for early morning kick-offs.

The news has gone down particularly well with the dozen or so men who work in Churchgate for Travel Counsellors, but Caroline is aware that there are a number of female football fans on the staff and she expects about one third of the staff to be interested.