Pub bosses have defended their decision to up prices for England games during the Euros – despite customers hitting back.

Among those increasing the cost of a pint ahead of the semi-final against the Netherlands on Wednesday was The Goose in Ramsgate.

A social media post about the hiked prices sparked a debate among Thanet residents.

It warned people that The Goose had put up the cost of beer by £1 before the big game.

The post added: “I and my large family will never go in there again. Beware if you are thinking of going in there for the final!”

They later claimed in the comments on the post that there were no signs up to notify customers of the increase.

But a spokesperson from the Stonegate Pub Group – which owns The Goose – says prices are hiked at peak times in response to the high costs the business endures during the tournament.

“The pub is the perfect place to watch the Euros and share in the excitement of the tournament with other supporters,” they said.

“In common with the entire industry, and as has been the case for many years, where there is a major increase in demand which requires additional staff, equipment or safety measures, we may adjust pricing at specific times.

“This flexible approach also enables us to cut prices for our customers at off-peak times. In preparation for kick-off, we have invested over £2.5 million across our estate into new screens, AV equipment, floor set-ups and staff, to make sure we can offer a fantastic, safe and inclusive environment.”

But some on social media described the move as “greedy”, while one person said: “Loads of people go to the pub to watch the game and don’t buy drinks. Probably why.”

However, some said they could understand why pub bosses decide to do this especially as many businesses have had to close their doors amid the turbulent financial climate.

“Everyone's happy to take the deals in pubs but not ok with paying a little extra during peak times...”

One person said: “Everyone's happy to take the deals in pubs but not ok with paying a little extra during peak times.

“People wonder why small pubs shut down daily.”

Others told of their enjoyment watching the match at The Goose, adding they did not notice the cost of beer being put up.

“I have to say, we watched the football there last night and can’t say I noticed the increased price but I will say we had a cracking night and the atmosphere in there was amazing,” they wrote.