For the seventh time in less than a month, Worcester’s pubs and bars are preparing to greet a wave of English fans as the national team take on Italy in the Euro 2020 final.
Bookings have been in high demand and if you haven’t sorted anywhere yet, you may be out of luck.
Aside from a handful of walk-ins, almost every pub in Worcester is fully booked.
The Courtyard, which can hold 200 people, has been fully booked since Thursday afternoon and owner Lloyd Cox can’t wait for the big game.
He said, “My phone wasn’t very good anyway, but it broke down with the amount of messages received. I only apologize to everyone who tried to book but didn’t get a response. ”
The bar will have six SIA door staff and since it is right on The Cross it will close its doors to prevent any more customers from coming in for a celebratory pint after the final whistle.
Many pubs are taking special measures to deal with the expected electrical atmosphere across the country.
The Saracens Head on The Tything is fully booked and will close its doors before kick-off and not allow re-entry.
The Eagle Vaults, Friar Street, only accepts advance bookings and will secure the doors for security during and after the game.
At The Swan Inn on Barbourne Road, not only are increased security measures in place, but a live DJ is put on all night.
Elsewhere, O’Neill’s, Mode, and Sixways Stadium are all sold out, and the Conservatory Bar hasn’t had a table in weeks.
One employee said: “We’ll be fully booked before the Germany game!”
For those still looking for a seat, the best choices are the Horn & Trumpet or the Old Greyhound on Angel Street and New Street, both of which accept walk-ins.