Pubs boosted by cricket fans' frenzy
The thrilling climax to the Ashes series proved a winner for the trade as England fans old and new gathered to watch the national cricket team see off the Aussies.
As interest heightened in the tournament, which witnessed Michael Vaughan's team winning back the Ashes for the first time since 1987, many pubs saw trade increase well beyond the normal levels for cricket tests.
Despite the final day falling on a Monday, pubs were busy as many fans extended their lunch hour indefinitely to watch England hold out for a draw at the Oval to clinch the series 2-1.
The Barracuda Bar in Shoreditch, close to the City of London, reported sales seven times higher than a typical Monday as customers crowded around its big-screen TVs.
Rob Morton, assistant manager at the Trent Bridge Inn close to the Nottingham ground, said: "Obviously, we were very busy during the Fourth Test, which was held at Trent Bridge, and there were plenty of people in the pub on the last day of the Fifth Test.
"Overall, we've been far busier than we'd normally expect. It's been very good for business."
At the Australian-themed Walkabout sports bar chain, sales rose as the tension mounted. As the England victory loomed after the Third Test, posters stressing that "it's not over until the fat lady sings" were displayed.
A spokesman for owner Regent Inns said: "We position our venues as the place to watch sport, so we were expecting a good sales performance - and our best forecasts were realised. The atmosphere has been great, with plenty of good-natured rivalry."
However, as the victorious England team paraded the Ashes through London the day after the final test, it looked as though the celebrations could be short-lived.
Sunnil Panjabi, lessee of the Punch Tavern in Fleet Street, which was on the parade route, said: "Everyone came out of their office to watch the parade, and there was a great atmosphere in the street. However, none of them stayed for a drink. I think most people had skived off on the Monday."
