Sport
Rugby World Cup: New BBPA guidance for pubs
The advice has been developed with the support of the Local Government Association (LGA) and the National Police Chiefs’ Council.
With England hosting the tournament, many pubs are likely to be extremely busy, and publicans can ensure a safe and successful tournament by closely reviewing the advice in the BBPA’s guidance.
Staffing requirements are crucial; consideration should be given to door supervisors and staff should be fully briefed. The guidance also covers considering the use of plastic glassware, and CCTV, and a host of other issues. Pubs should also work closely with local police and licensing officers to consider any issues that might arise.
Successful
BBPA chief executive Brigid Simmonds said: “As World Cup hosts, the tournament is an opportunity for pubs to take centre stage in what will overwhelmingly be a good-natured and fun event for everyone. This new BBPA guidance has been designed to help ensure we have a safe and successful tournament.
"If pubs make use of the guidance and are supported by the police and local authorities, we can all get the most out of this huge sporting spectacle.”
National policing lead on alcohol and harm reduction, Commander Simon Letchford, comments: “I am pleased to endorse the guidance to publicans for use during this year’s Rugby World Cup.
“As the host nation, our aim, which we know is shared by the licensed trade, is to ensure that everyone who wishes to can enjoy these matches in the comfort of their local pub with friends and fellow enthusiasts and is able to do so in a safe environment. Of course, responsible drinking is an important part of keeping that environment safe and I urge everyone to bear that in mind."
Enjoyment
“It is important that people’s enjoyment of the Rugby World Cup takes place in a peaceful manner, and this guidance is a great resource for publicans seeking to make the most of this sporting highlight without compromising on standards.”
Cllr Tony Page, LGA Licensing Champion, added: “We are pleased to support this helpful guide on how to rise to this challenge. If they haven’t already done so licensees should discuss their plans with councils, and their neighbours, to ensure the best solutions can be found and that everyone has an enjoyable time.”
