Pubs across Cumbria are able to stay open late today for the Euro 2024 final.
Licencing hours can be be relaxed in situations of ‘exceptional national significance’ – meaning pubs across England and Wales will be able to stay open until 1am tonight.
Following the Three Lions’ semi-final win on Wednesday night, the team is set to go head to head with Spain in the final, which will kick off at 8pm.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has confirmed the extended licensing hours. She said: “We’re so proud of Gareth Southgate and the England team.
“It’s right that we can all come together tomorrow to enjoy the match and—do we dare to dream?!—hopefully celebrate an England victory.
“I want to pay special thanks to the police officers and first responders who will be working across communities to keep us safe.
“I look forward to getting behind all our brilliant players, who bring so much pride to our country, and I want to wish the team the best of luck. Let’s bring it home.”
Venues across Cumbria are marking the occasion and most pubs are expected to get involved – but England fans are asked to check their local is open and showing the game – as opening hours will differ on a case by case basis.
All eight Weatherspoons venues across the county are showing the final and have said they will remain open until midnight.
Several supermarket chains are also changing their opening hours either today or on Monday to give staff time off around the final.
Lidl has confirmed all of its Cumbria stores will open one hour later on Monday, regardless of the match outcome.
Several of Cumbria’s Tesco Express stores are also expected to close early, as around 1,800 stores across England are shutting at 7.30pm instead of 11pm so employees can watch the game.
Sainsbury’s has also confirmed over 1,000 of its smaller stores and petrol stations across England will close early today.
Other local businesses including Cumbria Travel will be opening one hour later at 10am on Monday to allow staff to enjoy the occasion.
Workington’s Parkway Cinema is also screening the match in a family-friendly environment for free on the big screen. People can either reserve a seat or turn up on a first come first served basis.
Some schools across the county are also allowing children to come in one hour later than normal – but parents are urged to check with their child’s school if plans are in place for a late start.
England making it to the Euro final is believed to have given the hospitality sector across the country an £800 million boost.
Cumbria Police are urging people to enjoy tonight’s final responsibly. Those who are planning to enjoy drinks this evening are asked to make sure they have plans in place to get home safely.
Will you be watching tonight’s final? We’d love to see your celebrations, decorations and parties. If you’re a pub or entertainment venue, we’d also love to see or hear how you’re marking the occasion.
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