Players from Longbridge FC looked on in amazement as more than 200 fans turned up to watch them - accompanied by pre-match pyrotechnics on the pitch, professional PA announcer, introduction music and a rousing version of the national anthem sung by renowned opera singer Kathryn Sayles.

Even film crews and photographers assembled at Senneleys Park for the Birmingham Festival Alliance Division One match with local rivals Hellenic.

The surprise VIP treatment was laid on by Carling as part of its national campaign to make the game better for non league teams all over the nation.

The activity marks the start of a campaign for Carling who will travel the UK celebrating teams who have joined its pub football website - www.carling.com/pubfootball.

The site allows players to connect with their team mates through their team forum; share news, fixtures and results and even post video highlights of their games.