Cheers! Pubs able to open early for Lionesses' showdown against Spain

Friday 18 August 2023

Pubs and bars wanting to screen the FIFA Women’s World Cup Final this weekend have received the all-clear to open – and serve alcohol – early.

Licensed venues screening the England v Spain showdown on Sunday will be allowed to open from 10am, rather than 11:00, "to allow patrons to be seated in good time", the Bailiff has decided.

These venues will also be able to serve alcohol from 10:30.

Bailiff Sir Timothy Le Cocq said this exemption was due to the recent success of the Lionesses' and "the significance of this achievement both nationally and internationally".

Video: Celebrations at the final whistle of the semi-final match against Australia.

He added: "The Lionesses have already done marvellously in this challenging World Cup, facing very strong competition. It therefore is entirely appropriate to enable Islanders who wish to come together in bars and pubs to watch what is set to be a memorable World Cup Final.

"By bringing forward opening times of licensed venues, I hope this will ensure patrons are seated for the match and that venues are afforded more time to serve their customers before the start of the game."

The extension will only apply to early opening and there will not be an extension to closing times.

The decision has been made in consultation with relevant agencies and members of the industry, the Bailiff's office said.

Venues previously called on the Bailiff to grant extended hours for the last-16 match between the Lionesses and Nigeria, which was at 08:30 on a Monday morning, to capitalise on the "buzz" in the Island.

However, his office responded, saying that if the request had been put in earlier, it would have been granted.

Deputy Lucy Stephenson, the Assistant Minister with responsibility for sport, has also confirmed that the successful 'Fan Zone' in Liberty Wharf, which hundreds attended, will once again be opened, with extra capacity, for Sunday's eagerly anticipated game.

Pictured top: Islanders celebrate England's 3-1 win against Australia in the semi-final from the Liberty Wharf 'Fan Zone'. (Dave Ferguson)