Twickenham pubs in early closing fear ahead of Rugby World Cup

Twickenham businesses had hoped to cash in on the Rugby World Cup, which starts next month

Twickenham pub and bar owners have criticised police for announcing they would close at 22:00 BST on the night of an international rugby match.

The Met's advice meant some licensed businesses missed out on the benefits of Saturday's England v France game.

Twickenham business owner Rob Heyward described it as "a disgrace" and said it could affect licensees if the same happens during the Rugby World Cup.

Richmond Council said the closures were part of a voluntary arrangement.

Businesses are concerned they will miss the financial benefits fans bring with them to the area

The Metropolitan Police made a stadium announcement during the World Cup warm-up match which England won 19-14 to say people may not be admitted to venues after 22:00 in an attempt to "try and ensure the impact on local residents and the community was kept to a minimum".

But landlord Barbara Wardell said some of her fellow publicans closed their doors at 22:00 at the request of the police and "lost out on massive amounts of money".

Mr Heyward, a member of Kings Cross Steelers rugby club, said: "It suits the police but it doesn't suit local businesses. I think local businesses should be allowed to take advantage of the opportunity it provides."

The brewery Fuller's, which runs some venues in the area, also raised concerns about the legislation and the impact on hospitality and tourism.

England beat France 19-14 in Rugby World Cup warm-up match

Managing director Jonathon Swaine said: "We have dealt with post-rugby crowds for decades and we have no intention of stopping now.

"With the Rugby World Cup just round the corner, we should be gearing up to show British hospitality at its absolute best, not putting up the closed signs."

Richmond Council said Saturday's actions were part of trialling policing options for the tournament, which it would review.

Twickenham will host 10 games during the tournament which begins on 18 September, including most of England's games, both semi-finals and the final on Saturday, 31 October.

In 2014, the Home Office relaxed licensing laws across the country during the football World Cup in Brazil to allow pubs and bars to open until 01:00 BST due to the differing times zones.

But it stipulates that any guidance it offers is at the discretion of the local authority.