'Our pub is named after Jarrod Bowen... who else?'

Pub owners Tanith and Paul say Jarrod Bowen is "loved and cherished" by West Ham United fans in Essex

The owners of a city centre pub have renamed their venue during Euro 2024 to honour England footballer Jarrod Bowen.

The Wheatsheaf, in Chelmsford, has rebranded as The Jarrod Bow Inn since the opening game of the tournament on 14 June.

While not from Essex, Bowen quickly endeared himself with the county's West Ham United fans thanks to his stellar performances for the east London side.

Pub landlady Tanith, who did not give her full name, said the Herefordshire-born 27-year-old winger was "absolutely" loved by fans in Chelmsford.

The rebrand was decided following a vote, which saw 166 other names put forward to Tanith, who took over the pub with Paul Kelly in March.

Jarrod Bowen was brought on for Arsenal's Bukayo Saka during the 1-0 victory over Serbia

"We were trying to think of something to get everybody involved," said Tanith, a devoted West Ham supporter.

"The pub historically is a sports bar itself and so the idea was put out there to temporarily change the name of the pub during the Euros."

Bowen came on in the second half of England's 1-0 victory over Serbia on Sunday, and made an instant impact when he created a golden chance for Harry Kane.

Tanith told BBC Hereford and Worcester that Bowen was "more than welcome any time" to the pub in New Street.

"He is loved and he is cherished, not only as a West Ham player but also part of the England squad."