PUBS in Basingstoke will be allowed to stay open until 5am as England take on Mexico in the World Cup Round of 16 on Monday, in a late change to licensing rules.
The move means fans can watch England’s World Cup round of 16 match against Mexico live from Mexico City, which kicks off at 1am UK time, in pubs across the town.
At the time of writing, a number of Basingstoke pubs and bars have already confirmed they are staying open for the big fixture, including The Post Box Sports Bar, The Oak, The Dragonfly, The Golden Lion, The Riverdene, The Chineham Arms, The Wote Street Club, Whitchurch Sport and Social Club, Sherborne St. John Social Club, and the Bramley Inn.
Many pubs are ticketed so book in advance.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced the change on Thursday, calling it good news for both supporters and pubs.
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Crowds in The Post Box Sports Bar watching England v DR Congo (Image: Post Box Sports Bar)
Sir Keir said: "Football might be coming home but we're making sure fans don't have to."
Hospitality groups welcomed the decision.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: "We all know the best place to watch the match is down the local."
Michael Kill, chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, described it as "fantastic news" that would be "hugely welcomed by operators."
Greene King confirmed more than 600 of its pubs across England will stay open for the game, with venues including Carlisle among those extending their hours.
Crowds in The Post Box Sports Bar watching England v DR Congo (Image: Post Box Sports Bar)
Existing World Cup licensing extensions allowed pubs to open until 1am for matches kicking off between 5pm and 9pm, and until 2am for games starting between 9pm and 10pm.
These extensions followed a six-week public consultation launched in December.
Pubs ordinarily must apply to their local council for later opening at least five working days ahead of an event.
The latest change now allows fans to watch the full match without leaving before the final whistle.
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