World Cup fever hit pubs across the district as extensions were granted to 49 licensees by magistrates yesterday.

It was standing room only in Bradford's licensing Court as publicans packed in for the mammoth session.

This is the first time extensions are being granted for football matches, thanks to a High Court ruling and the floodgates have been opened for the World Cup.

There is a strong legal stipulation, however, that the premises must have the atmosphere and facilities for major sporting events.

Applicants were questioned by magistrates about the size of their television screens and told that everyone in the room must be able to see the matches.

Licensees said they were providing breakfasts for customers watching the morning matches and many were taking the opportunity to raise money for charity.

An application by Bradford Snooker Club was adjourned for more information after magistrates were told there was a 26 inch television which was wall-mounted but could be seen by everyone.

Further applications were being dealt with at Bingley licensing court today and over the next four weeks at both courts.

Police licensing officer John Tyson said the bulk of the applications had been dealt with yesterday in the unprecedented session.

But the courts face a tidal wave of applications if England win through to the latter stages of the finals.

Police will check for out-of-hours drinking in pubs which do not have extensions and will be on the alert for any disturbances.

The time difference between joint hosts Japan and Korea and the UK means some matches will be kicking off as early as 7.30am British time.

Mr Tyson said: "It is the first time we have dealt with anything like this and it is due to the recent High Court ruling. But there must be the atmosphere and facility to partake in the events and the applications wouldn't be granted simply to give the chance purely for drinking early."

Andy Gaytor, pictured, landlord of The Rosse on Bingley Road, Saltaire, has been granted a licence to open at 7.30am for all of England and Ireland's early matches.

He said: "We've got the big screen, five 28 inch televisions, and they're wired up so it can be heard and seen by everybody.

"Some people have said they have booked the day off, some have said if they work extra hours during the week they will be allowed four hours off for the matches, but the shift workers are the lucky ones."