Wedding guests should switch off their phones during marriage services that clash with England’s quarter final with Sweden, the Church of England have said.

The senior cleric in charge of ‘life events’ attempted to dissuade guests from stealing glances at smart phones while in church.

The England game kicks off at 3pm on Saturday, a popular time for wedding ceremonies and accompanying lunches and speeches.

The quarter-final clash prompted the Church of England (CofE) to issue guidance for guests torn between the biggest England game in 28 years and warching friends or family getting wed.

The Revd Sandra Millar, the CofE’s head of life events said: “For those attending a wedding service at 3pm, I’d strongly encourage you to make sure you are fully on-side with the happy couple and switch off your mobile phone in advance.”

She said that while guests at reception “may be forgiven” sneaking a look at the score, such behaviour ought to merit a red card if taking place in church.

She added: “For those getting married on Saturday, like England fans you might experience a few nerves, but you can be sure that it will also be the best day of your life, with memories to cherish. Who knows, come 6pm, that may be something you share with the rest of the nation too.”