Liverpool triumph fills bars

Merseyside pubs experienced a phenomenal evening's trade as Liverpool fans packed pubs to watch their team's amazing comeback to be crowned European champions last Wednesday.

Lessee Julie Wright said sales were "absolutely phenomenal" at her pub, the Atrium Bar. The pub laid on a free buffet to help Kop fans get through the tense evening.

"I would say they were up around 1,000%. We took more than we usually do in a week. It was the best night we've ever had. And there was not a bit of trouble at all."

Frances Lloyd, manager of Spirit's Beehive pub, said: "It was absolutely fabulous. We had the TV cameras in three times in the day and they stayed for about an hour and a half." She said plans for a special burger and beer offer for customers were abandoned because there were simply too many people, with around 300 crammed into the small venue.

"People were up on the tables. Even when Liverpool were 3-0 down they were still singing along. I'm sure there were some sore heads the next day!"

Andy Mcassey, assistant manager of Laurel's Office bar in Concert Square, said all eight bars in the Square were completely full ­ and many fans were forced to watch the match through the windows.

He said trade was probably higher than on a usual Saturday. "We are not really a sports bar, so it was something new for us."

Mcassey explained that trade remained buoyant as up to one million people flocked into the city centre for Thursday's victory parade. "It was good in the build-up, but afterwards it became quite quiet. It started a bit late so most people headed off once it was over."