A pub has been handed a warning for serving booze to Celtic fans at 8am in the morning.
A staff member said she felt under pressure to allow supporters into the Elms Bar in Saltcoats on their way to an Old Firm game.
Elaine Mcginn gave drink to football goers just before 8am - despite not having permission to open at that time.
The boozer is only two minutes walk away from the town’s police station.
When questioned by police officers over the incident, Ms Mcginn claimed the drinks were on the house.
Ms Mcginn, who appeared in front of the North Ayrshire Council Licensing Board, apologised and said she “felt under pressure” to open the bar on March 31.
She said: “I was just going to do it the once.”
Explaining her actions to councillors, she said: “I just wanted them to stop asking.”
Designated Premises manager Victoria Scrivenor who was away at the time said: “The pub should not have been open. I can’t defend it. It is a hideous situation.”
She told councillors the Celtic fans' bus has departed from the pub for 60 years.
Addressing the board, Ms Scrivenor said: “Elaine took the decision to open the bar. It was very disappointing.
She added: “I have never had a problem with Elaine. When this was brought to our attention it was quite shocking and disappointing.”
She described it as a “huge error of judgement.”
Licensing board chair Councillor Ronnie McNicol pointed out children were present.
Ms Scrivenor said they came into use the toilet and were accompanied by guardians.
Councillor Robert Barr asked why Ms Mcginn had told police the drinks were complimentary.
Ms Scrivenor answered: “On behalf of Elaine I think it was pure panic.”
Councillor McNicol pointed out: “You are pretty close to the police station as well.”
Councillors decided to send the premises a warning letter.
The board endorsed Ms McGinn’s licence for five years during the meeting this week in Irvine.
Councillor McNicol told her: “We don’t want to see you in front of us again. All I can say is don’t do it again.”
