SUPERMARKETS across Lancashire are bracing themselves for 'Euro 2004 BBQ-mania' as a mini-heatwave is due as the tournament progresses.

TV weather presenter John Kettley, a Burnley FC fan, predicted a heatwave for mid-July but it looks like it may have come earlier and could be here to stay.

He said: "We are seeing not only that there are more perfect BBQ days in traditional summer months, but that the spring and autumn months are also seeing an increasing number of days when conditions are ideal for barbecuing."

Asda has doubled its sausage, burger and meat and BBQ orders for its Blackburn store and outlets nationwide. Beer sales are also up 65 per cent - higher than ever before.

A spokesman said: "People have gone ballistic. The combination of the hot weather and the European championships has led to an unprecedented demand."

The sale of barbecues and accessories has risen by 38 per cent, including some shaped as footballs to appeal to the fans.