HUNDREDS of Dutch fans descended on Leigh town centre this afternoon ahead of their Women's Euros game against Portugal.

With the Netherlands taking on Portugal at Leigh Sports Village tonight (Wednesday, July 13), fans enjoyed the celebrations at the fan zone outside Leigh Town Hall in the backdrop of the Pete Shelley mural.

Basking in the glorious sunshine, people of all ages were treated to live DJ performances as well as the food and drink stalls on offer.

The 'Orange Army' then paraded their flags down Market Street and King Street towards Leigh Sports Village for the 8pm kick off.

Speaking to fans, many commented on their excitement for the game and their enjoyment of the tournament in Leigh and cities across England.

With Leigh hosting four games across the tournament, Mayor of Wigan Marie Morgan said that it is a "fantastic" thing to bring to the town.

Cllr Morgan said: "It's a fantastic thing for Leigh and the whole of Wigan borough to be selected to host the Women's Euros.

"There has been a great turnout today and it has been a fantastic occasion, and it goes to show that our borough can host similar events like this in the future.

"Lots of Dutch fans came up and thanked us for being so friendly, kind, and welcoming, and you can't ask for more than that."

Leigh Journal: Netherlands fans marched to Leigh Sports Village from the Town HallNetherlands fans marched to Leigh Sports Village from the Town Hall

Leigh Journal: Four fans providing some musical accompaniments for the march to the gameFour fans providing some musical accompaniments for the march to the game

Leigh Journal: Netherlands' lion mascot at the event in LeighNetherlands' lion mascot at the event in Leigh

Leigh Journal: Fans enjoyed music, food, and drinks at the fan zone before the gameFans enjoyed music, food, and drinks at the fan zone before the game

Leigh Journal: Colourful characters and footy mad fans!Colourful characters and footy mad fans!

Leigh Journal: Four fans excited for the game against PortugalFour fans excited for the game against Portugal

Leigh Journal: Netherlands fans flying their flags highNetherlands fans flying their flags high

Leigh Journal: Fans enjoying the music and sunshine in LeighFans enjoying the music and sunshine in Leigh

Leigh Journal: Fans in the shadow of the Pete Shelley muralFans in the shadow of the Pete Shelley mural

Leigh Journal: Mayor Marie Morgan said the event was a "fantastic occasion"Mayor Marie Morgan said the event was a "fantastic occasion"