LEICESTER’S bid to host World Cup matches in 2018 will get a boost this week as the campaign gets a high profile presence in the city centre. From today (September 1), shoppers visiting Highcross Leicester will be able to pop in to the ‘Back The Bid’ store to vote online for the city’s bid, pick up information about the campaign, buy World Cup merchandise or even have a kick about on a five-a-side pitch. Leicester City legend Steve Walsh will officially open the store tomorrow (Wednesday, September 2) at 10am - and he’s happy to give his backing to the  campaign.

 

"It would be fantastic if the World Cup came to Leicester," he said. "Leicester is in the centre of the country, and you only have to look at the passion for sport in the city to know how much it would make sense to have World Cup games here."

 

The shop unit has been made available free of charge by Highcross Centre Management to show their support for Leicester’s World Cup bid. Highcross Brand Experience Manager, Michael Holland, said: "Leicester has undergone a massive transformation over the last 12 months and welcoming football fans from around the world to enjoy the great offering that recent developments like Highcross and Curve have brought the city, would be fantastic.

 

"The city is well known for its sporting heritage and I hope that as many people as possible can show their support for this bid to bring one of the greatest shows on earth to Leicester."

 

Inside the store, shoppers will find two computer terminals, where they’ll be able to show their support for Leicester’s bid on the England 2018 website. They’ll also be able to choose from a selection of ‘Back The Bid’ branded items, such as footballs and key-rings, and pick up information that will update them on the progress of Leicester’s bid. Cllr Patrick Kitterick, Leicester City Council’s cabinet lead for regeneration and transport, said: "It’s fantastic that Highcross have given us this high profile location so that we can tell even more people about our bid.

 

"Over the next few weeks, we want to make this shop the focus of our campaign. We’ll be inviting famous people to pop in to back the bid, and we’ll be organising football coaching on our very own five-a-side pitch.

 

"If you’re visiting Highcross, call in to see us and give your support to Leicester’s World Cup bid."

 

The Back The Bid store is located on the Lower Mall of Highcross in the unit formerly occupied by Adams. The store - which has been furnished by John Lewis - will be open each day in line with normal Highcross opening hours until 20th September.