World Cup fever is in full swing and pubs have been gearing up for the biggest sporting event of the year.

The FIFA World Cup has now kicked off in Qatar and licensed premises which will be screening matches are expecting an extra boost in trade, especially for the England games - the first of which is today.

For the first time ever the World Cup is being held in winter, and although many pundits fear the viewing figures may be down, Weymouth pubs are still expecting to be busy.

With the tournament finishing a week before Christmas, matches will be held during the festive season which is traditionally a busy time for entertainment venues.

At The Gloucester on the seafront, bunting is hanging from roof to rail, flags have been pinned to walls and World Cup food specials have been introduced.

The pub has already booked out many tables for England’s first game against Iran at 1pm today.

Tom Thompson, assistant manager at The Gloucester, said: “For England matches its going to be incredibly busy, I know people that are saying they are going to call in sick to work just to come and watch.”

Chris Whitehorn, manager of The Wellington Arms, echoed those thoughts: “For the England games, I think we’ll be full, and people will be watching it through the window.”

The Gulf nation's human rights record, treatment of migrant workers and oppressive LGBTQ+ laws have dominated the build-up to the 22nd edition of the tournament.

The unprecedented winter World Cup is controversial, but it presents an opportunity for local businesses to prosper as people are likely to go out, watch matches and visit local pubs, shops and restaurants.

Mr Thompson added: “It will definitely be a welcome boost for our winter trade. Obviously, winter is notoriously quiet, but I think this will help local pubs and restaurants.”

It is likely that Wales' games and other high-profile matches are also going to draw in large audiences and although both The Gloucester and Wellington Arms expect packed houses, they are both confident they’ll be adequately staffed

Mr Whitehorn said: “We’re planning to put extra staff on especially when the England games are going to be on.”  

Customers are advised to be patient and show respect for pub staff.

Mr Whitehorn said: “Hopefully, people will realise that the staff will be doing the best they can in a busy period and have a bit of patience and then hopefully everyone should have a good time.”

Dorset Police have urged members of the public to enjoy the 2022 FIFA World Cup responsibly.

Chief Inspector Bryan Duffy, of Dorset Police, said: “The 2022 World Cup is the first ever to be held during the winter months and we have worked hard, in conjunction with our local partners, to put in place a detailed policing plan that will run alongside our usual commitments over the festive period.

“There will be an increased policing presence around key hotspots, and I want to urge members of the public to play their part by ensuring they enjoy the occasion in a respectful manner and avoid doing anything that puts yourself or others at risk.

“We have a positive working relationship with our local licensees, and we will continue to work with them to ensure any public disorder is kept to a minimum and we can respond promptly to any issues that arise.

“Many people may be enjoying a few drinks away from home as they take in a game, and we would urge people to plan ahead and think about how you are getting home. If you drink and drive, you run the risk of being involved in a collision, which can ruin lives. You also risk losing your job, ending up with a criminal record and could even face time in prison."