Pubs warned they need TV Licence for Rugby Six Nations

With rugby’s Six Nations Championship kicking off on February 1, TV Licensing is advising all pubs in Lincoln to check they are covered by a TV licence if they plan to show the games.

TV Licensing warns that their enquiry officers will be visiting pubs and bars throughout this year’s tournament, which runs until the March 16.

Anyone caught without a valid licence could face a court prosecution and fine of up to £1,000 per offence, plus costs.

“To be fair to the majority who do pay the licence fee, we have to take action against those who try to get away with not paying,” said Mark Binnersley, TV Licensing spokesman for East Anglia.

Landlords and pub managers are reminded that separate licences are required for entertainment purposes and any living accommodation on the premises.

Mike Clist, Chairman of the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII), the leading professional body
for UK’s licensees, said:

“Watching sport in the pub is a great British tradition, and we are sure the Six Nations will prove no different. However, together with the BBC, we always like to remind licensees that they must have a current TV licence in order to publicly show live sport legally.”