WORLD CUP WARNING TO YOBS

That's the advice from police who have pledged to make sure Lewes is a foul-free zone.

Police have the red cards ready for anyone who steps out of line.

Local officers are working with licensees to remind staff that they could face an 80 fixed penalty notice if they serve alcohol to drunks or underage customers.

On-the-spot fines will also be issued immediately to anyone drunk and behaving in an anti-social manner or be dealt with at court under the Football Banning Order legislation.

Lewes District commander, Chief Inspector Bob Gough said: 'We have identified all licensed premises that are showing the games, especially the England ones.

'I have sent a letter to every licensee reminding them it is an offence to permit any drunks or sell them alcohol.

'With the current reduction of public order offences in the district we are determined we will not see any upturn over the World Cup period.

'We will visit all the licensed premises and make sure we deal with offences very strongly.'

Ch Insp Gough said he would not hesitate to issue on the spot 80 fines.

'We want to minimise anti social behaviour and yobbery. I have instructed all my officers to take a positive and proactive approach.'

It's exactly a week until the World Cup kicks off in Munich and Lewes' pubs are preparing to screen the beautiful game.

The Volunteer Inn is making special efforts. The pub already has two plasmas but is installing a massive extra screen. Licensee Debbie Nye said: 'We will make a special effort but are focused on our regulars and will certainly remain a responsible venue in terms of what and who we serve.'

Another pub making extra efforts is the Royal Oak. Landlord Hugh Rix is opening the upstairs function room as an all-seating area with table service. Customers will order food in advance for half time and Hugh will even throw in a few orange segments!

There will be a 42-inch plasma screen in a room with capacity for 60.

By contrast, the Gardener's Arms, while not football-free, will be a comparative haven. Andy Fitzgerald, landlord, said: 'We will show every game but will not be going over the top. We are only expecting regulars and there will be the one TV. Football is going to be ubiquitous for weeks and we don't want it to be in anybody's face.'