CHEERS FOR HEATWAVE PUB BOOST

Sun and footie see sales soar

THE sizzling summer heatwave has boosted struggling pubs – with takings soaring 2.7% last month.

England’s unexpected long run in the World Cup and July’s blazing heat meant boozers did a roaring trade.

Peter Martin, of business consultancy CGA, said: “It seems people just wanted to go out for a drink.”

Paul Newman, of leisure and hospitality analysts RSM, added: “These results continue the trend we’ve seen since April.

“Weather and the impact of major social or sporting events remain the biggest factors when it comes to sales.”

Meanwhile people have been gambling on the bank holiday being another scorcher.

Ladbrokes are quoting odds of 4-6 that some part of the UK will record 30C this week, and 6-5 that the thermometer will reach that over the weekend.

Spokesman Alex Apati said: “We’ve been treated to a glorious summer already and while it’s looking less likely we’ll see 30C BOTTOMS UP: Folk flocked to pubs in sun next weekend, the odds suggest there’s still at least one more scorching day in store this week.”

Forecasters are predicting the UK will be cooler, with highs in the south of 19C and 15C in the north. There could also be a mix of showers and sunshine.

Craig Snell, from the Met Office, said: “It will be fresher. Nights will be chilly. And by Friday you may even need a light jacket!”