World Cup fever has hit Bridport as pubs and venues try to make the most of the biggest - if unusually timed - sporting event of the year.

The FIFA World Cup has kicked off in Qatar with many in west Dorset choosing to watch from their local pubs and venues and publicans hoping the event will give them a boost this winter.

Just a few days into the tournament, staff Bridport businesses have said they have experienced a boost in trade from the sporting event.

England’s first match was on Monday, November 21 against Iran which England won 6-2. 

Jody Spellman, director of The White Lion in West Allington, Bridport, says it felt like 'the busiest pub in town' on Monday.

She said: “It was fantastic in here. I didn’t think it would be so busy.

“We were understaffed because we didn’t expect so many people.

"Some patrons had taken Monday off to come and watch the football. Every World Cup all pubs become sports bars, but we seemed to be the busiest pub in Bridport.

“The last couple of years have been a kick in the teeth, but Monday made it all worth it. Everyone was really well-behaved. After the game people came up to the bar to say thanks. Hopefully, the World Cup will continue to bring in business."

This is the first year that the World Cup has been held in winter, with matches being held during what is traditionally the festive season for pubs and venues.

Jody added: “I don’t think it will conflict with festivities this year. With hard times coming this winter people need something to look forward to."

The West Bay Hotel is showing every game of the World Cup.

Staff say they did not see 'a significant increase' in business during the game but are hopeful for a larger impact as the tournament progresses.

Shaun Whiting, general manager of the West Bay Hotel, said: “We did not see a big difference on Monday when England played Iran, but then we are only a few days in.

“We expect a larger turnout on Friday evening when England plays Wales. The first England game was on Monday afternoon, whilst the next game against Wales is on Friday evening. There is no comparing them.

“This is the first winter World Cup, everyone is still getting used to it. Our major concern is fans interrupting people having their Christmas dinners, but we plan to continue showing the World Cup throughout."

England's next game against Wales will be tomorrow, Friday, November 25 at 7pm.