This is very interesting to read(along with Hodd's description of the incident itself and how well he handled it) as an American who has no idea(or not much) about British pub culture.
I was first appalled by the early openings, but I do remember, after I gave it some more thought, that there was a bar near me here in Pennsylvania that would also open early for drinkers, back in the late 80's. I was told about it by an older guy who worked for a road crew and if it rained he and his coworkers would just go there instead and drink at like 6 or 7AM.
Thinking about it now, I can't imagine how it was legal, as PA was pretty strict about hours booze could be sold, but maybe this was an illegal place. Or maybe this happens more than I know.
Anyway don't want to hijack the thread but again, it's a view into pub culture for this non-Brit.