Cambridge Boozer Baits Germans

As borderline-xenophobic sentiment sweeps the country in anticipation of England's clash with Germany, one Cambridge publican has plastered his pub with foot-high anti-German slogans.

Tongue-in-cheek phrases include ''Don't mention the war'', and '' Russian linesmen welcome'', a reference to England's World Cup victory over Germany in 1966.

''England vs Germany and the French have gone home….Ring any bells?'' and ''We were only following last orders'' are emblazoned across the property in capital letters.

Patriotic Dave Utting, landlord of the Empress in Cambridge, also daubed a giant flag of St George across the bar but insisted he is not trying to offend anyone.

He said: ''We thought we'd go all out to support England and have a bit of a laugh at the same time.

''We are having a bit of a joke at the expense of our German and French friends but it's all in good fun.

''The reaction has been fantastic. People just look with their mouths hanging open in shock and then burst out laughing. It looks fabulous.''

German pub regular Chris Richter, 37, helped paint the slogans on the pub and said he did not find any of them offensive.

He said: ''I will be watching the match on Sunday and am just hoping it doesn't go to penalties – that old story. I think I?ll keep quiet if we win. But this is just a bit of fun.''

Mayor of Cambridge, Councillor Sheila Stuart, said she had no intention of banning the mischevious slogans.

She said: ''I don't wish to tell a pub how to run its business. I have seen many pubs flying the England flag and that?s very jolly.

''I am sure the landlord has not set out to offend anyone.''