Stonegate Pubs adds levy to drinks prices to cover security during England's World Cup clashes

Stonegate Pubs has added charges of up to 50p to certain drinks during England's World Cup matches, to cover additional security costs.

The company, which has more than 690 pubs nationwide, has said the price increases were relative to increased licencing commitments required by police or local authorities.

The price hikes were revealed in an investigation by The Sun, which found that a Yates bar in Manchester had added a 20p match surplus, while a Walkabout in Colchester had added 25p and the Clock House in Harlow 50p.

A spokesperson for Stonegate Pubs said: "It is common practice across pubs, bars and entertainment venues to implement event pricing when big events take place to ensure customers have an experience in which they can be served quickly, remain safe and enjoy the occasion.

"Any increases in cost covers the requirements of additional staff, security, cleaning and those associated with satisfying and complying with varying licensing requirements, including the use of polycarbonate glasses, additional door teams and increased supervision. Therefore proportionate increases ranging from 10-50p applies on certain products in certain venues."

Additional licencing requirements during large-scale sporting events can include the use of plastic glasses, additional security and bar staff, the provision of food or the withdrawal of drinks offers.

Top 100: Simon Longbottom, Stonegate>>

Stonegate reports positive trading over Christmas period>>

Get The Caterer every week on your smartphone, tablet, or even in good old-fashioned hard copy (or all three!).