Landlords in Borehamwood could face hefty fines if found broadcasting Premier League football via foreign satellite systems.

Hertfordshire Trading Standards is warning pubs that BSkyB and Setanta hold the exclusive rights to air Premier League matches in the UK and are reminding licensed premises owners that use of any other satellite system to broadcast games counts as copyright theft.

Guy Pratt, head of Hertfordshire Trading Standards, said: "Showing these games without a licence is the equivalent of stealing and will not be tolerated."

Anyone found using such equipment risks having it seized as well as a fine of up to £5,000 or even imprisonment. Pubs broadcasting matches illegally also risk having their alcohol licence reviewed.

Mr Pratt said: "If you think buying cheap foreign satellite systems is a quick and easy way to boost profits at your pub, think again. It could cost you thousands of pounds, your livelihood and even your freedom."

But Morgan O'Brien, landlord of The Cannon pub, and chairman of Borehamwood and District Pubwatch, said landlords are being put under excessive pressure because of increasing legislation.

He said: "It's illegal trading, and no experienced pub-owner would do it. However, rates for BSkyB and Setanta are excessive. Pubs have been hit very badly recently with the smoking ban and the price of alcohol going up. I think some of the new stipulations and legislations are ridiculous."

The former landlord of the Shooting Star, in Rossington Avenue, Borehamwood, was fined £6,000 last May for broadcasting Sky illegally.

For more information on the Trading Standards legislation, call 01727 813849. For consumer enquiries, call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.