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Lunga Biyela, News24

Cape Town - Hundreds of people across the country left their offices on Wednesday to blow their vuvuzelas as the 2010 FIFA World Cup draws nearer.

Ex Survivor contestant Danielle Vukic and South African Sports Illustrated’s first editor Richard Whittingdale were part of a large crowd gathered in Somerset Street, Cape Town.

“This is fantastic,” they told News24. “We’re now really looking forward to the World Cup.

“I think this is what Cape Town needed because up until now, it's been asleep. Cape Town has finally woken up,” said Vukic.

“It also means no one will do any work until July 12,” added Whittingdale.

Great day

Eric Voyi said he thought the spirit in Cape Town was great. “I can’t wait for the opening match, today is a great day, everyone is happy.

He said he was rooting for Bafana Bafana and that they will not disappoint.

“I think that we are going to win the World Cup.

Another soccer fan shared Voyi’s sentiments. “I am very happy with this. Everyone is blowing their vuvuzelas and people in the country are happy.

He added that he will be watching the games at the FIFA Fan Fest at Grand Parade in Cape Town.

Streets lined with people

Englishman Joe Crann was also part of the festivities.

“I just came out and the streets are line with people, it’s fantastic,” he said.

“I’ve got tickets to see the England-Algeria game and also Holland-Cameroon. I’ve never been so excited in my life.”

However, his friend Sthembiso Mntambo, who also referred to himself as Crann’s “bodyguard”, said that although it was a good initiative, a lot of people quickly went back to their offices.

“It still doesn’t compare to Joburg.”

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