It’s no secret that pubs in the UK close early. But, we have some good news. Watering holes that usually shut at 11pm will be able stay open for an extra two hours for one day this May.
To mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on Thursday, May 8 pubs will be allowed to stay open until 1am, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced. If you’ve got annual leave to use, you might want to think about taking Friday, 9 May off work.
Starmer said: ‘As we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the whole country should come together to remember the incredible sacrifices made by the wartime generation and to celebrate the peace and freedom they secured for us all.
‘Keeping our pubs open for longer will give people the opportunity to join in celebrations and raise a glass to all of the men and women who served their country, both overseas and at home.’
The PM is giving everyone an extra two hours on the pints as part of four days of festivities that have been organised by the government for this year’s anniversary, which will run from Monday, May 5 to Thursday, May 8.
The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) welcomed this decision to extend drinking hours, saying it will give the nightlife industry an essential leg-up.
Micheal Kill, chief executive of the NTIA, said: ‘At such a challenging time for the hospitality sector, allowing businesses to extend their trading hours during these celebrations offers a much-needed boost while paying tribute to our shared history.’
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