A POPULAR Somerset pub known for its football fanzone during major tournaments is closed due to a "‘major electrical issue" and remains shut on the eve of England's World Cup semi-final with Argentina.
The Great Lyde, located at Cavalier Way, Yeovil, closed its doors temporarily on Wednesday, July 8.
Despite the team at the pub hoping to reopen on Friday, July 10, the pub remains closed until at least Friday, July 17, as announced in a new update made on Saturday, July 11.
Mike Krzyzanowski, a spokesperson for the pub, said in a Facebook post: "Sorry, we are still closed due to a major electrical issue.
"The work will hopefully be scheduled for the end of next week.
"Until then, we will remain closed."
Read more
Much-loved Somerset riverside cafe put up for sale after seven years
New chef hired at BBC MasterChef judge's Somerset restaurant
Two Somerset restaurants named among the best 100 in the UK by top food guide
The timing of the closure is a huge blow to the pub and football fans in Yeovil, with The Great Lyde hosting one of the area's largest fanzones during the World Cup.
The fanzone was a huge hit during Euro 2024, as more than one thousand people piled into the pub's large outdoor seating area to watch England's 2-1 loss to Spain in the final.
While the capacity has been dialled back for this summer's World Cup, it has continued to host matches and put on live music and other entertainment ahead of England's games during the tournament.
But the issue meant that the pub was unable to screen The Three Lions' quarter-final win over Norway on Saturday and appears certain to remain shut for tomorrow's semi-final crunch match with Argentina.
One resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: "It’s a real shame that they’ve had to close.
"They’ve done a brilliant job making the pub a great place to enjoy England games during tournaments and delivering a fan experience that involves the whole community.
"Hopefully, if England make it, they’re back up and running in time for the final, because it is a fantastic venue for the football."
