Pub group Regent Inns has expressed its concern over the predicted slowdown in consumer spending after it experienced a fall in sales.

Reporting its first quarter figures, like for like sales fell 1 per cent, despite being boosted by the unexpected success of the English rugby team.

In a statement, the company said that it remained wary of the prospects of its Jongleurs comedy club business in the current climate.

A spokesperson said: “The board remains cautious in its outlook for entertainment bars, given the increasing likelihood of a slowdown in consumer spending, the full impact of the smoking ban and the uncertainty over England football team’s participation in Euro 2008.”