Police deal pubs World Cup blow
Pubs hoping to make bumper profits during the World Cup have been dealt a blow by police plans to ensure venues screening matches use door security and polycarbonate glasses.
The move has emerged in Basingstoke, Hampshire, where licensees have been sent letters asking them to tell the police if they intend to screen matches.
It follows a Pubwatch group meeting where licensees were informed that police wanted security beefed up for England games.
Martin Hillier is the licensee at Enterprise Inns pub the Winkle, which is based on an estate in the town.
He regularly screens domestic football on Sky and said the police plan could potentially impact on trade.
"When you show Premier League matches there is more chance of trouble because you can have rival fans but we have never had any problems," he said.
"It is just totally over the top. The last edition of The Publican had some great tips to make the most of the World Cup but in the same week we get this letter.
"The World Cup should be a chance to make money but these measures could end up costing pubs dear."
Other licensees The Publican contacted said they were concerned about the plans but had yet to receive the letter.
Licensee Bill Sharp, of the Guild of Master Victuallers, said the plan was akin to "using a sledgehammer to crack a nut".
"This is a bit Big Brother and if pubs have a good relationship with the local authorities they should be able to address any issues.
"Pubs are all different and this blanket approach will not be right for all venues. The World Cup should be a chance for people to enjoy the football in the pub," he said.
However, a spokesman for Hampshire Constabulary said pubs were not being forced to comply with the measures.
He said: "We have advised them to think about getting door to door security, it is not an enforcement order.
"If there is any disorder we would look at reviewing the licence if they did not comply but it is not a condition to showing the games."
