The Isle of Wight Council has said it will deal with pubs which break licensing rules on World Cup final day, in a 'proportionate and pragmatic way'.

However, it has not ruled out sanctions for venues that breach regulations.

Secretary of State, Michael Gove, has this week sent a letter to all council leaders across the country.

In it, he asks local authorities do ‘everything they can’ to get pubs open earlier.

Read more: Where to watch England women Lionesses on the Isle of Wight

Most are unlikely to be able to serve alcohol until 11am, with some being restricted until midday, according to the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).

 

 

England's match versus Spain kicks off at 11am on Sunday (20).

Pub bosses have warned that, due to licensing rules, some venues are unable to serve pints, or open early, ahead of kick off.

A spokesperson for the Isle of Wight Council told the County Press: “The Isle of Wight Council has received notification from the RT Hon Michael Gove MP confirming that there isn’t any relaxation of licensing hours for the Woman’s World Cup final on Sunday.

"In his letter he requests that Licensing Authorities take a pragmatic approach in dealing with any premises who may open outside of their permitted hours on Sunday and where possible speed up the process for applications for changes to operating hours."

Individual pubs can apply for a temporary event notice (TEN), but that requires five working days to process.

Mr Gove has asked councils to rapidly consider applications for short extensions to licensing hours.

It's understood the Isle of Wight Council's licensing department has had just one query from a venue, relating to Sunday morning.

In Cornwall, authorities have said they will not take enforcement action on early sales.

Asked whether there would be sanctions for those opening, or serving alcohol, early, a spokesperson added: "The Isle of Wight Council acknowledges Mr Gove’s letter and will deal with any incidents on Sunday in a proportionate and pragmatic way.”