With the 18^th FIFA World Cup starting today many people will no doubt head to the pubs and bars across the country to watch the tournament unfold. Whilst this is a time to celebrate, it is also a time when pub operators need to be extra vigilant.

Licensing solicitor Rob Westwood-Payne of Bevan Brittan says: "Undoubtedly this will be a busy time for pub operators however it is likely that they will be faced with a range of issues including underage drinking, anti-social behaviour and with people consuming too much alcohol.”

“Operators need to exercise caution during this period as it is likely that the licensed trade’s response to customers behaviours will be scrutinised more than any other time as enforcement agencies such as the Police and Licensing Authorities see this campaign as the first major test of the new licensing laws in action.”

Rob suggests a number of things operators can do to ensure they don’t fall foul of the law:

• Hold briefings with employees to remind them of their obligations on issues such as underage drinking and anti-social behaviour. Staff should also complete a training record to show this briefing has taken place

• In order to prevent underage sales, employees should ensure that proper identification is requested on every occasion where they are unsure that customer is over 18.  Better still, operate the Challenge 21 scheme and ask for identification from anyone who looks under the age of 21

• Operators should try to ensure that customers do not over consume on their premises and that employees have the authority to refuse service to customers who appear to have had enough

Rob continues “If operators adhere to this advice, and permitting England get through, they should have a very enjoyable World Cup!”