We visit budget UK pub chain's first foreign outlet

PUB chain Wetherspoons has opened its first boozer overseas and we were first at the bar to order a pint.

- BY GRAHAM HISCOTT

At 10.30am, British holidaymakers were lining up at Castell de Santa Barbera in the departure lounge at Alicante airport.

The pub targeting travellers flying back from Benidorm and the Costa Blanca could lead to more branches in Europe and boss Tim Martin has even hinted of spreading as far as China.

Spanish tiles replace the traditional Spoons carpet at the venue, which is smaller than most UK branches.

The menu also differs, with no fish and chips, but around 90% of it is similar, with airport prices typically more than the high street.

A traditional breakfast with fried eggs, bacon, sausage and baked beans is €10.25 (£8.94) compared to £5.09 here, while a bacon, sausage or vegetarian butty are all €5.95 (£5.19).