FOOTBALL fans in York were today celebrating news that pubs could be opening "early doors" during this summer's World Cup.

It had been feared that a 1978 ruling would ban landlords from serving alcohol during some of the early matches.

Different time zones in Japan and South Korea mean some games will kick off as early as 7.30am - including England versus Nigeria on June 12.

Seventeen other games in the group stages have 7.30am starts, one being Republic of Ireland against Cameroon on June 1.

England's group F rivals, Argentina and Nigeria, face a 6.30am showdown on June 2.

A High Court decision means landlords can now apply to magistrates for a licence to serve beer with the breakfast- time games.

Bristol landlord Martin Gough brought yesterday's High Court test case which overturned the 1978 decision.

Lord Chief Justice Lord Woolf, sitting with Mr Justice Harrison, agreed with Mr Gough that World Cup games are special occasions and participatory events.

Carlisle and England fan Greg Halfpenny, of Hampden Street, York, welcomed the decision.

"It's common sense. If someone wants to have a pint while they watch the match they should be able to do it, no matter what time it is," he said.

Carol Moutrey, landlady of The Cross Keys, in Goodramgate, said: "It is good news that we can apply. The pub is always packed out with a brilliant atmosphere whenever the football is on."

Chris Fall, manager of the Northern Wall, in Fossgate, said: "I'm definitely applying for an extension. It's heaving in here when the football is on," he said.

Darren Rushworth, landlord of the Derwent Arms, in Commercial Street, Norton, said: "It's great news. If there is football on, especially the World Cup, we want to be open and serving customers. I'll definitely be applying."

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Magistrates Courts Committee said no decision had been taken over whether licence extensions would be approved.

"We have got some applications adjourned pending this judgement, and clearly the judgement will prompt some more.

"We are going to have to wait and see exactly what the judgement says before making any decision on approval or refusal," the spokesman added.

The 1978 ruling was made after magistrates granted early licences for the World Cup in Argentina. Police successfully appealed against the decision.

richard.edwards@ycp.co.uk

Updated: 10:29 Saturday, April 13, 2002