Plans to publicly broadcast a major football event have been unveiled by Watford Borough Council.

The Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor announced today the FA Cup Final would be shown on a “Big Screen” in Cassiobury Park next Saturday (May 18).

The decision came after fans voted overwhelmingly in favour of publicly televising the event in polls set up by the mayor on his social media pages.

The initiative was started and intended for Watford Football Club fans who had not been able to get a ticket for the Wembley Final.

In addition to the screening, supporters have been recruited to paint the town yellow, with volunteers from the 1881 Movement hanging bunting across the high street and Watford flags draped outside the Town Hall from this Friday.

Screening will begin at 4pm building to kick-off at 5pm.

Should the game go into extra time and penalties the event will finish between 7.15pm - 7.30pm.

The screens will be switched off after the medal ceremony.

Mayor Taylor said: “Reaching the FA Cup Final is a massive achievement for our town. It will be great to see everyone come together to support the team.

“I’m really pleased that we’re able to put on this family friendly event, which I hope those who aren’t able to make it to Wembley can come along to.

“I’d also like to praise the work of the volunteers from the 1881 Movement, who are putting on a fantastic display across the town. Let’s hope for a great result next Saturday.”

Ex-Watford FC player Luther Blissett added: “I remember when we made the final in 1984 under Graham Taylor how amazing it felt to see the whole town come together to support us.

“I really hope everyone is able to help to support the boys, paint Watford yellow and enjoy this great time for the club. Come on you ‘orns.”