FOOTBALL fever is sweeping Inverclyde today as fans and local business get behind our national team.

As Scotland kick off their Euros campaign against the Czech Republic, shops in Greenock town centre are getting into the spirit by creating window displays full of flags, footballs and fun.

Mairi Coventry at the Wee Crafty Owl in Jamaica Street has designed a colourful display to celebrate Scotland's involvement in the competition for the first time since 1996 and to send fans into a frenzy.

She's full of excitement about the games ahead.

Mairi said: "This is really big thing for Scotland so we have to show our support.

"This is the first time in a long time that we've been involved in a major tournament so it's very exciting.

"I just wanted to do something to support them and to build a bit of excitement.

"A lot of shops have lovely displays in their windows already and hopefully that will encourage more businesses to get involved."

Steven Welsh at Picture Your Frame in Nicolson Street is also flying the flag with his window display.

The businessman says Scotland reaching the Euros is great for everyone in these difficult times as it will help to bring the nation together.

He said: "Having the flags in the window is good for us as a business as it shows our support.

"I think we'll get past the group stage and reckon we'll do better against England that people think we will."

Cat Doherty, who runs Cat at the Barber Chair, has also dressed her window to support the team and put up the flags of all the nations in the finals.

She said: "I just wanted to get into the spirit of things and show everyone that we're rooting for Scotland."

Today's match at Hampden kicks off at 2pm and is live on the BBC.