BOX has launched a brand new lookalike competition where football fans can win free pints and bar tabs during the Euros this summer.
The popular chain of sports bars has several locations all over the UK and is sure to be packed for Euro 2024. It also turns out the brand is hoping to fill its various venues with some of the best football lookalikes possible as part of a fun new giveaway.
It does exactly what it says on the tin: those fortunate enough to bear a resemblance to famous footballers be handed free pints throughout the tournament.
There's even the chance for the most impressive footballing doppelgänger to win a table of six plus a whopping £250 at your BOX site of choice for the Euro 2024 final on Sunday, 14 July. Say no more, we're booking a trim from Jack Grealish's barber and squeezing in a quick leg day.
Entry terms are simple: to join you simply need to submit a photo of yourself, a friend or a family member who you believe looks similar to a well-known footballer.
To take part, just tag @theboxbaruk in your Instagram story with your lookalike image using the hashtag #BOXDOPPLEGANGER, then send a direct message containing your entry.
Probably the best part about all of this is that you get a free pint just for taking part. Anywhere offering free pints whilst the footy's on gets man of the match from us.
The fun doesn’t stop there though: a weekly Euros-themed quiz every Wednesday at the local BOX in Headingley to test fans' knowledge; their famous 'Bandeoke' is on every Thursday, as well as live bands and DJs on Fridays and Saturdays to guarantee the party continues long after full-time.
Fans can also treat themselves to a number of European-inspired delights with a limited-edition food and drink menu, featuring Currywurst Loaded Fries, Bavarian Burgers and the ‘Olympian’ pizza. Plus, you can get two-pint beer steins, mini-kegs and a host of other Euros-themed drinks.
BOX's football lookalike competition is one of many reasons it's a great place to watch the Euros. (Credit: Supplied)
As always with these things, full T&Cs apply but the whole thing is pretty straightforward and you can find out more information on their website.
Laura Lewis, Marketing Director at ARC Inspirations, commented: "We’re excited for EURO 2024 to kick off a huge summer of sport at BOX. This competition is the perfect start, and we can’t wait to see all the entrants and crown the overall winner. We’re looking forward to welcoming fans at our venues and hopefully celebrating a successful summer for the England team!"
"The football is just the tip of the iceberg. We will be showing all the major sporting events, like the Cricket T20 World Cup, Wimbledon, and the Olympics. We can’t wait to see our venues filled with fans having a great time and watching their favourite sports. Not only is BOX the ultimate bar to watch, it’s also the ultimate venue to play and party this summer."
BOX quickly found its way onto our list of where to watch the Euros in Leeds and to find out what other venues we think are among the best places to witness the football finally come home (you best believe it is), look no further:
A newcomer to the Leeds foodie scene has been added to the coveted Michelin Guide.
You may remember back in April when a Leeds icon was reborn under a different name.
The Smithfield took over the site that was home to The Reliance for more than two decades, and it's safe to say it exceeded expectations.
The team transformed the site to its former glory, taking the site's exterior back to its memorable dark red. But the efforts to recapture the essence of the iconic old venue go way beyond that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Smithfield, a collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, offers simple dining with seasonal food and natural wines.
It's the sort of place where you can rock up for a plate and a glass people watching through the huge window on North Street, or really get stuck into a sharing pie and chips with friends on a Saturday afternoon.
Either way we love it, and it seems we're not the only ones as The Smithfield has been added to the Michelin Guide just five months after opening.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Announcing the great news to Instagram, The Smithfield said: "We’re very pleased and grateful to have been included in the Michelin Guide.
"To get this kind of recognition so early in our journey is a real honour, and one we certainly don’t take for granted.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Thank you to our wonderful guests for your continued support. Also, huge thanks to our brilliant team. The Smithfield is what it is because of your hard work, enthusiasm, energy and diligence. This recognition belongs to you.
"We’re just getting started, and our focus remains the same: creating a welcoming space for our community, serving food and drink we’re proud of, championing great British and local produce, and contributing our small part towards Leeds’ brilliant hospitality scene. The Smithfield."
Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards
Clementine Hall
Betty's Tea Room has been named among the nation's best by experts.
If you live in Yorkshire, then you will know about Betty's Tea Room.
Its a real institution at this point, known for their exceptional service, exquisite food, beautiful window displays and the iconic cake trolley.
We all know their products are top tier, but they've just had even more recognition at the 2026 Great British Awards.
Announced in London, Betty's won gold for their Yorkshire Shortbread Biscuits which were judged by Cherish Finden, internationally renowned pastry chef.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Judging in the Sweet Biscuits category was led by Cherish Finden, best known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.
She said: "A well-made traditional shortbread with a lovely buttery flavour, balanced sweetness and a subtle touch of salt that enhances the overall taste. The delicate, crumbly texture makes it particularly pleasant to eat.
"Overall, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying shortbread. I could eat the whole packet with a cup of tea."
Gavin Johnson, head of bakery operations at Bettys Craft Bakery, said: "We are incredibly proud that our Yorkshire Shortbread has been awarded a Gold Medal at The Great British Food Awards 2026.
"This recognition reflects the enduring values of Bettys, the finest ingredients, best quality, traditional craftsmanship and a deep connection to our Yorkshire roots.
"Most importantly, the award belongs to the talented bakery team, whose skill, passion and care go into making our Yorkshire shortbread every day.
"Their commitment to excellence helps ensure that our products reflect the heritage, quality and attention to detail that customers have associated with Bettys for generations."
Danny Jones -
15th June 2024 
