WITH rugby’s Six Nations Championship kicking off next Saturday (6th February) TV Licensing and the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) are calling on all pub landlords and managers in Monmouthshire to check they are covered by a TV licence if they plan to show the contest.

The tournament is set to be the most spectacular ever, with fans across the UK heading to pubs and bars to watch the games. 

TV Licensing and the BII are reminding all pub owners and managers that they need to have a TV licence to show any live games. A TV licence is required for watching or recording any TV programmes at the same time as they are broadcast.

TV Licensing will be visiting unlicensed pubs and bars throughout this year’s tournament, which runs until the 19th March. Those without a valid licence are breaking the law and run the risk of a court prosecution and fine of up to £1,000 per offence, plus costs.

Pubs and bars can purchase a TV Licence in minutes via an online form at www.tvlicensing.co.uk/businessinfo or by calling the TV Licensing business team on 0300 790 6112.?Catherine Griffith-Williams, TV Licensing Wales spokesperson, said: “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. If any landlords or managers would like more information about the licensing requirements, or ways to spread the cost, they can contact our call centre.

“A licence costs £145.50 and can be purchased in minutes online.” 

Anthony Pender, chairman of the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII), the leading professional body for the 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, it’s important that licensees making the most of live sport and the revenue opportunities it presents are doing so legally. We’d urge all those in the industry planning to show the tournament to check they have purchased a TV licence beforehand.”