Police and local authorities have backed down over the decision to impose a curfew on Twickenham’s pubs during the Rugby World Cup.
A meeting of all the major parties, including Richmond council, the Metropolitan police, tournament organisers and local publicans decided on “a more flexible approach to managing licensing” for evening matches.
On the night of August 15, when England played France, police announced at Twickenham stadium that local pubs and bars would close at 10pm. Local publicans were furious because the request to restrict entry after 10pm had been voluntary.
Some were still open, missing out on trade after the game. Richard Morgan, 64, a local publican, said that he lost as much as 20 per cent of potential turnover after the announcement. “The thing is, when you have the rugby, locals disappear, so no fans means no trade,” he said.
Under the new measures, the number of people in the town centre and pubs for each evening match will be assessed before licensing decisions are reached. Some publicans welcomed the new approach but others remained disgruntled. One pub owner, who wished to remain anonymous, accused the Rugby Football Union (RFU) of turning Twickenham stadium into “the biggest pub in the country”.
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Ian Ritchie, chief executive of the RFU, said: “We are pleased to reach this decision which works for all parties.”
Superintendent Jon Williams, from the Metropolitan Police, said: “We want people to enjoy the Rugby World Cup, and will work with our partners to ensure a safe and successful tournament.”