AS the England football team progress to the Euros semi finals, pubs across the city are enjoying a bumper period of trade.

Pubs have felt the benefit since the tournament began in June, and the Imperial Tavern landlord, Fred Jones, is looking forward to England's semi final this Wednesday (July 10).

He said: "Business has easily quadrupled when England have played during midweek and I expect the same this Wednesday.

"Because the Imperial Tavern doesn't have a garden, people will often go elsewhere to enjoy the warmer weather.

"But the Euros has balanced that out for us."

England's semi final tie against the Netherlands kicks off at 8pm, and Angel Petty, who works at the Oak Apple, said the difference in trade has been noticeable during the tournament.

Miss Petty said: "The Euros has definitely taken business to the next level. Saturday night was mayhem.

"Our core regulars have come for every England game and we have gained new customers too since the tournament started."

The Oak Apple has made watching England this summer easy, with four televisions and a projector installed indoors and three televisions outdoors if the weather is kind.

Miss Petty added: "We already have a few bookings for Wednesday, so it's filling up."

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The Imperial Tavern has been packed out for England's games too.

Mr Jones said: "We are already fully booked for Wednesday evening, and to be honest, we may be slightly oversubscribed.

"It isn't a problem though. We have lots of regulars and they're a friendly group, so it generates a real party atmosphere - particularly when England win!"

Pub goers watched on as England defeated Switzerland on Saturday night (July 6) via a nerve-wrangling penalty shootout to seal their progress.

Matt Collins, who owns The Kings Head, in Sidbury, said: "Some people had to step outside when the penalties started as they just couldn't watch. It was tense.

According to Mr Collins, the Euros has brought in more than just trade.

He added: "The vibe has been good. The tournament has lifted everybody, so if the weather improves I think it sets us up for a great summer."