World Cup campaign in a gastropub

Something as big as the World Cup cannot be ignored, even when you run a pub that has great fresh food and fine wine as its major attractions.

Some of the regulars are not only keen on great food and wine but also soccer and so it is that without great fanfare there must at least be a nod to the beautiful game.

Quite why it is so called, I don't know. It might be better called the expensive game, the big girl's blouse game or the diving game but maybe I am just too old and cynical.

Anyhow, we have joined in the fun by offering a very good value three course menu to 20 regulars to have in the garden room where, hidden behind closed doors, there is a flat screen TV for important events like elections, the Ashes cricket series, England rugby games, Springwatch, and, only just, World Cup soccer.

There has been an enthusiastic take-up for the 20 seats available, which is not surprising as the three course meal is about half the price of an average Chelsea ticket.

Starters before the game, main course at half time and desserts after the final whistle.

I have also done a deal on some fine wines from my private cellar so at least at the culinary level there should be a great match.

As with the Cheltenham Gold Cup, the Derby and the Grand National, there has been a sweepstake, as there always is and for no apparent reason.

The 32 teams in the tournament are offered, on a random basis, a fiver a throw with £70 for the winners, £40 for second, £20 for third, £10 for fourth and £20 to go to a local charity, yet to be specified.

So far so good. However, the random nature for picking the teams has resulted in me getting Germany and the wife getting Mexico which means there is half a chance that one of us may win, which would be a disaster.

The main idea with any form of sweepstake at the Inn is not to win as it will cost you a fortune. £70 may be coming your way, but with 32 teams in the tournament and so getting on for the same number in the draw, think how much a round will cost, especially at the Inn!

There is no doubt that the winner will be out of pocket and, please no, it could all be because Germany beat us again, probably on penalties.

Have a good tournament everyone, and may the best team win, as long as it isn't Germany or Mexico!