Breakfast bets on England games

12 April 2012

BETTING shops are to open for the first time at 7am for punters to bet on the World Cup, it was announced today.

Nearly 100 William Hill branches across the country are set to open early to allow punters to place their wagers on key matches.

The first 7am opening will take place on Saturday June 1 when the Republic of Ireland take on Cameroon, kicking off at 7.30am. Shops will open early again on Wednesday June 12 when England play Nigeria, also starting at 7.30am.

William Hill spokesman Graham Sharpe said there was a good chance that shops could open early for other key games depending on the demand. 'We anticipate people dropping in on their way to work to place a bet and to watch the first half of the match,' he added.

Betting shops do not need to apply for special licences to open at 7am, although they would to open any earlier.

Mr Sharpe said: 'Some members of staff have already pledged to wear pyjamas, and we will be laying on tea, coffee and snacks for customers. But we don't anticipate serving French bread, Belgian buns, Danish pastries or Turkish Delight as we wouldn't want to be accused of favouritism.'

William Hill shops will be opening in London, Cardiff and Glasgow and other major cities across the country.

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