Punch trials 3D projectors

Punch Taverns is claiming a first by trialing 3D projectors for screening football at its managed pubs.

The projectors, from technology firm LG, will be rolled out across its neighbourhood pubs division, which includes John Barras.

The Raynes Park Tavern in Raynes Park, south west London, is billed as the first pub in the country to be showing sport using a 3D projector and will be celebrating its arrival by screening Chelsea versus Liverpool on Sunday (6 February).

Matt Dunne, general manager at the pub, said: "The picture quality is amazing. Our guests are going to be the first in the country to have the opportunity to experience 3D football on this scale and I'm sure it's going to be a big hit.

"When it comes to gaining the full effect from 3D, size does matter. The screens will offer our guests the closest experience possible to actually being at the ground and give that extra sense of drama and excitement."

Director of property for Punch Pub Company, Rob Godwin-Bratt, said: "We plan to trial the 3D projection system in several Punch pubs, and if the initial trials are a success, we may consider rolling the system out nationally."

Sky said more than 1,000 pubs and otheer venues signed up to receive Sky 3D when the service went live in April 2010.