PARIS is sweltering and the Wales and Northern Ireland fans are making the most of being in one of the world’s most beautiful cities and anticipating a historic last-16 clash between their sides tomorrow.

But the French, and even some in the media centre, seem more interested in talking about Brexit than football.

Checking out of my hotel in Dinard for the fourth time bright and early this morning I was informed of the news from home by the concerned receptionist.

I found myself doing a Gallic shrug and apologising on behalf of my compatriots but the mood of the locals is one of bemusement more than anything else.

By the time I got to my car, thankfully back up and running after the trauma in Toulouse, David Cameron had resigned.

And as I hit the outskirts of Paris the Scots were demanding another independence referendum and the Spanish agitating for the removal of the British flag in Gibraltar.

Strange days indeed. But what better way to distract yourself from the looming Armageddon/Brave New Dawn than two home nations going head to head for a place in the Euro 2016 quarter-finals?

Wales voted to leave the EU, while Northern Ireland opted to remain but both will be desperate to stay in the Euro dreamland for at least another week.

Before we left Dinard, for what may be the last time for many, the Football Association of Wales kindly organised a beach football contest for the media followed by an Italian meal in the town centre.

The teams were split into Wales v England and unfortunately the Three Lions boys were triumphant again with a thumping 7-2 win.

That is despite former Wales international Danny Gabbidon finally winning his 50th cap.

The Cwmbran-born defender, who was on the bench as Chris Coleman’s men started their qualifying campaign in Andorra in September 2014, retired last summer.

His silky skills stood out amongst the various hacks and snappers but the 35-year-old did report a slightly tight hamstring afterwards and may have to be rested if we’re still here for next week’s planned return fixture.

South Wales Argus: