South West pubs score big cash boosts during World Cup

Pubs across the South West have had a real boost in trade as a result of the World Cup, landlords say.

Hundreds gathered in pubs at 02:00 BST on Monday to watch England's 3-2 win over Mexico and publicans said they were expecting it to be busy again on Saturday for the Three Lions quarterfinal clash with Norway at 22:00.

Lewis Challen, landlord of the Ploughboy in Saltash, Cornwall, said the competition had had a "massive impact" and he had seen a "five-fold increase" in trade.

While Anthony Cassidy, co-owner of the Galaxy Sports Bar, Torquay, Devon, said they had "tripled the amount of stock" for the tournament.

The time differences have meant many games have been screened late in the evening or in the early hours.

Prior to the tournament, the Home Office announced a change to the licensing laws in England and Wales during the World Cup, which meant pubs could stay open until 01:00 for England or Scotland matches in the knockout stages that kick off between 17:00 and 21:00, and until 02:00 for kick-offs between 21:00 and 22:00.

For England's game against Mexico, which kicked off at 02:00, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced hat pubs could stay open until 05:00 for the match.

Cassidy said between 80 and 100 people watched the game in the early hours and it was the "best atmosphere we've had".

The British Beer and Pub Association said an estimated 55 million additional pints are likely to be poured if England make it to the World Cup Final.

Challen said they have had "extra beer delivered every day" and was hoping for another "bumper night" on Saturday.

He said it had been a difficult time for the industry but "we can only thank the football for this trade".

"As a sports bar, we have to fight the sun a lot. With the hot weather, people want to be at the beach.

"But the World Cup has had a great affect and people want to come in.

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