PUBS will be able to stay open late for the England World Cup matches – whether or not they choose to show them.

Licensing solicitor Philip Day, of Horsey Lightly Fynn, said the Government’s recent announcement on the issue meant pubs could stay open until 1am for the Italy game on June 14 and until midnight for the Uruguay game on June 19.

If England qualify for the latter stages of the tournament, all further matches with late kick-off times in which they play will be covered for a maximum period of four hours from kick off.

Mr Day said: “This doesn’t just apply to pubs and clubs – restaurants and hotels are also covered but off-licences will have to close at their normal times.”

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