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A football phobic boozer is refusing to show next summer’s World Cup due to concerns over fan behaviour.
The Thompsons Bell pub in Walmer, Kent will not be following England’s progress through the competition, which takes place in the USA, Canada and Mexico, thanks to ‘over the top noise’ created by lively fans.
Bosses at the bar are also worried about customers hoping for a peaceful pint ‘getting drenched in beer’ amid a football takeover, as supporters tune in to see if Thomas Tuchel’s Three Lions can end a 60-year wait for World Cup glory.
Patrons will not be starved of entertainment during the live sport ban, however, with The Thompsons Bell laying on quizzes and karaoke instead.
But the pub is keen to come up with more activities that can replace the football, and its social media page has been urging people to bring ideas to keep drinkers distracted.
Some of the most popular ones suggested so far include bottomless brunches and live music.
The radical marketing strategy seems to be largely aimed at female drinkers but also anyone who does not enjoy the Beautiful Game.
A pub spokesperson said: ‘As you’re probably all aware, next summer sees the return of the World Cup.
‘Even as a football fan hearing those words sends my blood colder than a Siberian winter. All you want to do is go for drinks with the girls, enjoy good food and embrace the sunshine.
‘But all you get is over the top noise, drenched with beer everytime there’s a goal and too many awful renditions of Vindaloo.
‘Don’t worry though girls, I’ve got you covered.’
The social media announcement then confirmed the pub would not be showing any of the much anticipated matches.
The pub has recently shown huge football games including the UEFA Super Cup between Tottenham and PSG in August.
It also broadcast the Community Shield which saw Man City face Crystal Palace three days earlier.
The Thompsons Bell added: ‘Instead, we’ll be focusing on the non-football fans, providing a safe, relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy good food, the perfect pour and great company.
‘Now this is where you come in. What events would you like us to do on the nights there are England games?
‘Live music? Karaoke? Quizzes? Bottomless Brunch?
‘We want to hear from you! And it’s not just the girls, anyone who has no interest in the World Cup, we’re your place.’
The idea has got a mixed response from locals, with some enthusiastically suggesting alternatives to the football while others gave their criticisms.
The Three Lions qualified for the World Cup with a perfect record, winning all eight games without conceding a goal.
They face a tough group, however, with Harry Kane and co set to play Croatia, Ghana and Panama.
The World Cup starts on June 11 and runs until July 19 next year.
A spokesperson for the pub added: ‘It’s not concerns, it’s just an alternative offering for those not interested in football.
‘I have previously shown the World Cup and Euros. I’m a huge football fan however, if I was to show a Liverpool v Arsenal game for instance, there would be alot of banter but it would be harmless and a great atmosphere.
‘It seems when it’s the World Cup or Euros and everyone is supporting the same team it’s just madness! It can get rowdy and messy and I’ve never really understood why!
‘I started considering this after the women’s Euros final earlier this year. The pub was packed but it was such a great atmosphere!
‘Having taken all this into consideration I decided that every pub will be showing the World Cup so why not do something different?
‘Provide a safe space for women, families, the older generation, people who have no interest in football to enjoy good food, a relaxed atmosphere and events without the threat of being covered in beer whenever a goal is scored!
‘A couple of them have asked why but as soon as I’ve explained they’ve said, “Yeah fair play, totally get where you’re coming from!” It’s gone down incredibly well, it was obviously a huge risk to take this decision but I think it’s appreciated and the football fans still have plenty of other pubs to go to!’
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