Summer licensing extension granted

Perthshire pubs could cash in from this summer’s World Cup after special extended licensing rules were agreed for the global showcase.

Perth and Kinross Licensing Board has agreed a general extension to licensed hours for all matches involving UK Home Nations.

As a result, Perthshire licensed establishments who sign up for the scheme will have an extension of 30 minutes after the final whistle of

each home nations match, for indoor areas only.

More sales

Pubs showing games will benefit, potentially with extra sales, and interested premises should contact the Licensing Board AFTER they receive notifications about the scheme, directly.

Time zones are at least five hours behind the UK, with the tournament finals being held in the US, Canada and Mexico.

Historic

Convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s Licensing Board, Councillor Peter Barrett, said: “This will be a historic occasion, and I hope this decision will deliver a real boost to our night-time economy.

“We are all extremely excited to see Scotland play in a World Cup for the first time in 28 years.

“This decision will allow our premises to stay open so fans can enjoy watching Scotland, or other Home Nations, in their favourite pub.”

Scotland manager Steve Clarke has already been popular in Perthshire this year, opening the 2026 Tay Salmon season at Meikleour in January. See the full story.

Should the Scots do well in their first finals since France 1998, he may be getting an extra toast from local publicans.