The key issue was not whether supporters should be able to watch England, but how long the premises needed to remain open afterwards.
Rutter accepted that major sporting events can sometimes justify extra licensing hours. However, he said the proposed extension went “significantly beyond those required for the viewing of the sporting event”.
Police and environmental health officers opposed the application, warning that customers staying into the early hours could increase the risk of alcohol-related crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour. Officers also said they could not identify a clear reason for the requested hours or assess what measures would reduce those risks.
The licensing committee rejected the notice and issued a counter-notice instead.
The decision highlights the difficult balance between football’s ability to bring communities together and the responsibilities placed on venues hosting large crowds.
For many pubs, a major tournament can deliver a valuable boost. Yet a late finish brings staffing, security, noise and public-order concerns - particularly when the game itself does not require a 3am closing time.
No representatives from Grace Kelly’s attended the hearing, and no response was recorded.
The rules may become more flexible if England or Scotland progress. Pubs will be allowed to stay open until 2am for knockout-stage matches, while venues can apply for temporary permission when time-zone-driven kick-offs run later.
For Seaham’s supporters, the next licensing test could arrive with the tournament’s later rounds - when the final whistle, rather than kick-off, becomes the real issue.