Presumably jealous Norwich councillors had put paid to a proposal which would have allowed Town fans to travel to European games using Norwich Airport. Council chiefs decided that the airport should not be given special permission to open after 11pm for Town fans.

They said that noise would be a problem and that they didn't want to set a precedent.

The airport's commercial director Trevor Eady (!) said: "Norwich International is very sad that this application has been turned down. The decision sends out the wrong messages both locally and within our industry - especially at a time when we are growing in other ways."

Bad news for heavy drinkers hoping to get slaughtered at the UEFA Cup games; UEFA have banned drinking in grounds. In a move presumably designed to stop trouble only corporate supporters in the boxes will be able to get a drink.

A UEFA spokesman explained: "No public sale or distribution of alcohol will be permitted within the stadium or its private environment."

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls