North East Londoners are happy and hopeful heading towards the FIFA World Cup this summer as they can stay out for longer as pubs opening hours are extended.
The UK government announced pubs in England, Wales and parts of Scotland will be allowed to stay open until 1am for knockout games of the FIFA World Cup, and until 2am for matches kicking off at 10pm.
Mike, the manager of Clissold Park Tavern, is hoping to see a positive increase in fans at his venue during the summer.
“Big tournaments like the World Cup bring a different crowd. Not the usual fans, but it’s great. They’re more rowdy, but we’d love to keep the garden open late,” he said.
Even though he is from Ireland, who are yet to qualify for the group stages, he wishes England well.
“I hope England progress far through the tournament as it will be good for business,” he said.
The nightlife scene in London has been closing earlier. In some cases across the UK, closing down completely due to increases in taxes and rent. Pubs have dropped 15% since 2017.
However, the Night Time Industries Association revealed the industry has increased from £1.47billion to £1.67billion in that time, showing that the people of the UK still love a beverage and a night out.
Depending on how far the home nations progress, football fans will be hoping there are plenty of those nights throughout the tournament.
As these extended licensing hours only apply to the home nations fixtures, venue owners will choose tactically which games they stay open for.
Harry, the duty manager of The Vineyard Islington, said: “England games are always busy. It’s likely we’ll be wall to wall rammed.
“Plus it’s the summer. Think of the weather. When the sun comes out. Everyone and their mum comes out.
“I’ve had my heartbroken in past competitions, but I’m hoping they [England] win the World Cup.”
The FIFA World Cup gets underway on 11 June, with the final on the 19 July.
The aim of Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s decision is to bring communities together with pride and unity, celebrating and supporting their nation, not encourage anti-social behaviour.
In the government’s consultation regarding the matter, it stated: “There is no evidence that a significant increase in alcohol-related crime and disorder has materialised during past national licensing hours extensions.”
The FIFA World Cup will be played in the United States, Canada and Mexico. This is the first time the competition will be hosted across three countries, resulting in some games being between five to eight hours behind GMT.
Pubs will also be able to apply for a temporary licence for any late kick-off that finishes beyond 2am.
The iconic memories and viral clips that have been witnessed during football campaigns in the past are bound to be in full swing. Football and nightlife in the UK is an essential part of the economy and culture.
From last minute heartbreak losses to watch parties with the Lionesses, the pubs are going to be the place to be this summer.
Featured image credit: Ifiok Awak-Essien
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