England fans will be able to enjoy pints on the beach as Qatar eases strict alcohol rules for World Cup

ENGLAND fans will be able to enjoy a pint on the beach as Qatar’s strict alcohol rules are lifted for the World Cup.

The news the Gulf State is easing its rules will be warmly welcomed by the thousands of supporters hoping to make the journey to cheer on the Three Lions.

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Putting a dampener on any celebrations while out there though is that it could cost a fortune.

Usually, alcohol is only served in licensed restaurants and hotels for those aged 21 and over, where a pint of Stella Artois costs £11.

Berthold Trenkel, Qatar Tourism’s chief operating officer, told the : “There will be alcohol available in more places.

“We will be opening up some beach clubs where beer will also be available. Fans will also be able to buy beer at kiosks once they are inside the perimeter of the stadiums.”

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But he added only zero-alcohol beer would be available inside grounds.

Fans have been warned about indulging too heavily in a drinking session and to respect local traditions.

Qatar has strict rules about public behaviour.

The news comes a day after England found out who their opponents will be in the first round of the World Cup.

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It all gets underway on November 21 and England will be in action on the opening day.

Gareth Southgate’s men were drawn in Group B along with Iran, USA and the winner of the Uefa play-offs - which will be either Wales, Scotland or Ukraine.

And England versus Iran will be the second one to take place with a 1pm kick off (GMT) at the Khalifa International Sports Stadium.

It is Friday night action next for the Three Lions, with the second group match against USA set for a 7pm start.

That one will be held at the Al Bayt Stadium on November 25.

Then England will be hoping for some Tuesday night delight in their final group clash.

The potential bumper Battle of Britain will be staged at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium on November 29 with a 7pm kick off UK time.

Then should England qualify from the group they will be back in action that weekend.

Spurs fan Fil Sollof, 57, who booked his flights last week, welcomed the booze news.

“Getting a beer at a beach club sounds like a great idea. The vast majority of England fans will totally respect the rules and traditions of Qatar.

“Now the draw has been made I’m really excited – and think England have got a great chance.”

Earlier today a Sun investigation revealed that fans making the trip to Qatar will have to fork out more than £9,000 per night on a hotel.

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Fans will also have to fork out on direct return flights costing £1,063 and £724 for match tickets.

Most hotels are already sold out and prices for the few rooms still available for the tournament starting on November 21, such as at the Four Seasons in Doha, are soaring.

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