THE World Cup starts today with England first in action on Monday night.

Basingstoke Town boss Jason Bristow is hoping the Three Lions have an excellent tournament and bring the feel good factor into football, which is sure to benefit Town's pre-season which starts next month.

Bristow said: “I think if England do well, everyone will be buzzing and want to watch live football.”

The Dragons kick off their pre-season with a trip to Alton on July 10 (7.45pm) and then travel to Burnham on July 14 (3pm).

The first game at the Camrose is against National League side Eastleigh on July 17 (7.45pm).

Then four days later, another side from the same level. Maidenhead United are the visitors in a game, which has a 3pm kick-off.

On Saturday July 28, Town travel to last season’s Wessex League Premier Division champions Blackfield and Langley. Then three days later they away again at Alresford.

Their final pre-season game is against Welsh side Llantwit Major on Saturday August 4, which has the earlier kick-off time of 1pm.

The visitors travel to Basingstoke after back-to-back Welsh League titles and next year the Vale of Glamorgan side will play in the Welsh League Division One.

Bristow said: “I think we have a good mix of games from teams above and below us.

"The final game against Llantwit will be a good test as they are used to winning."

He added: "At the moment I think a lot of our squad will be back, but we know our limitations and having to raise money, but everything is going in the right direction.”