WITH the bulk of the Premier League season kicking off on Saturday, August 8, TV Licensing is reminding pubs and clubs showing live sport in Taunton to make sure they are correctly covered by a TV licence.

Any pub, club or sporting venue which shows live television must have a valid TV licence.

Pubs 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.

Richard Chapman, TV Licensing spokesman for the South-West, said: “With around 80 pubs in or within ten miles of Taunton, many fans will choose to watch the matches in their local pub, soaking up the atmosphere whilst following all the twist and turns of what is sure to be an exciting campaign.

“It’s important pubs and clubs are correctly licensed and we know landlords and managers want to stay within the law, which is why we are issuing this advice ahead of the 2015-16 football season.”

Martin Caffrey, Operations Director, Federation of Licensed Victuallers Association, added: “I would like to encourage landlords and licensees, as well as bar and club managers, to make sure they are up to date with their TV Licensing requirements ahead of what promises to be a busy season of footballing action.

"Showing live sport is a massive draw for millions of pub-goers so I’d urge those in charge of buying the TV Licence to check the bar is correctly licensed while they have the time.”

Landlords or managers who would like more information about TV Licensing requirements, or ways to spread the cost, can call the TV Licensing businesses team on 0300-7906131.