While England football fans are dreaming of glory at the European Championships, dozens of disabled residents have an extra incentive for hoping the Three Lions defy the odds and triumph.

That’s because a Holloway charity has a sizable bet riding on the team – and hopes to splash the winnings on Olympic-themed day trips for adults and children with learning disabilities.

Centre 404 stands to be �1,700 richer should Roy Hodgson’s men storm to victory at the final in Donetsk on July 1.

James Humber, learning and leisure services manager, said: “An amount like that would make a real difference and we would be really thrilled. At the moment it’s pretty difficult to find funding at a time when people’s needs are increasing.

“There’s a real buzz in the office. We originally rated England’s chances as very poor but now we think they’re dead certs. The draw with France was a good first step. They’ll win the final with a long ball from Terry headed in by Rooney. That’s the English way – back to basics.”

Centre 404 in Camden Road, Holloway, was chosen by the Gazette to benefit from a �100 charity bet offered by Paddy Power in Holloway Road, Holloway, in conjuction with its branches in Archway and Nag’s Head.

Paddy Power stumped up �100 and laid generous odds of 16-to-one, meaning a payout of �1,600 in winnings plus the original stake.

The catch was that, in true patriotic fashion, the newspaper had to plump for Wayne Rooney and Co. The charity will try to keep a lid on expectations so the disappointment of an early exit isn’t too crushing.

And should that be the case, the blow will be softened because the bookies will still hand over the �100 stake.

Carole Brown, branch manager at Paddy Power, said: “We’re really pleased to help a local charity and we need England to win.”

Centre 404, which works with 600 Islington children and adults with learning disabilities and their families, has already earmarked the cash to pay for two garden parties and three sporty days out, including trips to the Paralympics. It also hopes to give users the chance to try a range of sports including archery and football.