A COMPANY which operates a pub that was caught without a TV Licence has been ordered to pay £612 by magistrates.

Mitchells Pub Management Services Limited, which operates the Eccleston Arms on Prescot Road, was fined £375 for the offence of using a TV without a licence on the business premises.

The company was also ordered to pay £200 costs and a £37 victim surcharge at the hearing at Wirral Magistrates’ Court.

Any business that shows television, as it is being broadcast, whether for customers’ use or in staff areas, must be covered by a valid TV Licence.

If there is living accommodation on the premises where a TV is also in use, this must be covered by a separate licence.

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.

Businesses found guilty are also required to buy a TV Licence at £145.50, or they could face a potential second prosecution.