With the World Cup just around the corner Croydon's business community is gearing up for what could be a big money spinner.

The football extravaganza could be a lucrative period for Croydon companies which will be doing everything they can to exploit the tournament.

Croydon's town centre pubs, clubs and bars will benefit most from next month's four-week festival of football though all licensed premises will be keen to avoid a repeat of the Euro 2004 riots which resulted in several people being jailed for causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Angelina Purcell, Croydon Business chief executive, said firms should make sure they are ready to reap the benefits.

She said: "It will be a fantastic time for Croydon and it will raise the profile of the town centre.

"We've got a strong, vibrant and young clientele who I'm sure are looking forward to the World Cup.

"I know our businesses are excited by the prospect and are already gearing up to next month.

"But it is important for all Croydon's businesses to get a slice of the World Cup cake. People will want to make a day of it especially when England are playing so we want our restaurants and shopkeepers to be prepared and ready for the extra trade that will come their way."

Ms Purcell is also urging companies to be "sensible" when organising football special offers.

She added: "Obviously we want our licensed trade to make the most of the increased business but it is also important for them to be sensible in their offers.

"The police have worked together with our businesses to ensure there is no repeat of what happened two years ago.

"We want the environment to be a happy one and I know there are robust measures in place to ensure that any trouble is kept to a minimum and that everyone has a positive experience during the World Cup, which can only help our businesses during this busy period."