We have the Men’s T20 Cricket, Women’s ODI and T20 Cricket, Tour de France, Wimbledon, England v West Indies Test series, the Olympics and Paralympics all happening between June and September to excite us all.
There is also the small matter of the Euros taking place in Germany from 14th June to 14th July with the Government giving welcome news of the intention to relax licensing hours should, sorry, when England or Scotland reach the semi-finals or final. But that aside, how can operators best prepare for this year's summer of sport?
Top tips:
1. Live TV broadcasts are not classed as licensable activities but consider if the event you want to screen falls within your normal operating hours. If not, you may want to consider submitting a Temporary Event Notice (TEN).
2. Consider checking your licence conditions to make sure there is nothing on there which might affect your plans such as keeping windows and doors closed or no sound amplification outdoors. Consider submitting a TEN to disapply any conditions where necessary.
3. Warmer weather brings with it the temptation for customers to drink more quickly than they normally would as well as increasing the effects of alcohol making those missed penalties even more emotional. Ensure that you have a good selection of soft drinks available for those who might be there for a while.
4. Be a good neighbour and consider letter the locals know if you are putting on an event or televising sport. Put up signs asking your customers to leave quietly and respect the needs of your neighbours.
5. Sport is fun for the whole family so why not encourage parents bring the kids along but make sure all staff are alert for underage and proxy sales.
6. Considering using plastics and polycarbonates during sporting events just to be on the safe side.
- Joe Harvey is an associate solicitor at Poppleston Allen
