Islamic State has expressed its delight for the expected negative economic impact on the United Kingdom and the European Union following the British referendum - and called for attacks in Berlin and Brussels to “paralyze” Europe, the Mirror said.

A jihadi Telegram - an encrypted messaging service popular with militants - praised the economic chaos that came in the wake of the EU Referendum and urged followers to strike at the heart of mainland Europe, according to terror threat monitor Site.

UK military chiefs have warned there is a "serious and direct threat to holiday resorts across Europe'"from groups like ISIS.

The Foreign Office (FCO) says "there is considered to be a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria".

Belgian authorities say the plot required "immediate intervention" after they arrested 12 people in Brussels.

The Belgian's team - nicknamed the Red Devils - are due to play the Republic of Ireland in Bordeaux at 2pm this afternoon.

It is believed the attack was due to take place in the Belgium capital while fans watched the match on TV.

Farouk Özgünes, from Flemish public broadcaster VTM said: "The suspects were planning to carry out attacks while the Red Devils were playing a match at the European Championships this weekend.