The decision by the magistrates is a real head-scratcher

Mark Hastings, British Beer and Pub Association

He said: "I'm very disappointed, but not just for us, this will affect every pub in the country."

Ron Reid, representing Mr Fermoy, said: "Unless there is some changes made or unless we appeal successfully I don't think that anybody will be able to watch the England-Sweden match in a pub."

'Baffling decision'

Mark Hastings, from the British Beer and Pub Association, believes the Buck and Bell is the first pub to be refused a "World Cup licence".

He said: "The decision by the magistrates is a real head-scratcher. They must be the only people in the country who think that England playing in the World Cup isn't a special occasion.

Local were surprised by magistrates' decision

"This decision could condemn millions of football fans to watch the game at home rather than take part in a huge national celebration."

The association is backing a "Beckham and eggs" campaign to put pressure on authorities to allow pubs to open early for the game.

The Bicester magistrates' decision to refuse the Buck and Bell a licence followed a precedent set in 1978 in what was known as the Watchorn case.

In the Watchorn case, it was decided an event must satisfy three requirements before a court would consider allowing an extension of opening hours.

The event must be a special occasion, have some national or local importance and those who benefit from the extension would have to be participating in the event.

While the magistrates accepted the first two requirements, they refused the application on the grounds the drinkers were not participating in the event.