A CAMPAIGN has been set up to ensure pubs in the Borders are correctly covered by a TV licence to show football matches.

TV Licensing are working with the Scottish Beer and Pub Association (SBPA) to warn publicans across the region to pay the fees, as the season gets underway next month.

There are 360 pubs and clubs in the Scottish Borders and all venues that intend to show sport need to have the required licensing or they can face a fine of up to £1,000.

In February, a pub in Glasgow was the first in Scotland to face a penalty after screening English Premier League games without a licence.

Fergus Reid, TV Licensing spokesman for Scotland, said: “Many fans will be looking to watch live matches in their local pub and soak up the atmosphere with friends.

"Ahead of the start of the season, we want managers and publicans of pubs and clubs to make sure they're on the right side of the law, so their customers can enjoy watching the action without worrying about whether they're correctly licensed," he added.

"Our enquiry officers do visit unlicensed addresses throughout the season. 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."

Brigid Simmonds, Chief Executive of the SBPA added: “Offering live coverage of televised sport is a great way for licensed outlets to encourage footfall and boost trade, so obtaining a TV Licence can be an essential part of supporting the business.”

More information can be found at: www.tvlicensing.co.uk.