PEOPLE in Bolton watching Saturday's Grand National without a TV licence are playing against the odds, TV licensing bosses have warned.

According to new figures, licence evaders have a 3-2 on chance of being caught this year -- which means they will be 25 times more likely to be fined up to £1,000 than place a bet on an average Aintree winner with odds of 17-1.

Licensing officers visit more than 1,000 homes and businesses every day, and are warning that Grand National day will be no exception.

Phil Reed, TV Licensing spokesman said: "The Grand National is one of the biggest TV events of the year, but for our officers Saturday will be a normal day, with visits taking place nationwide."

"With nearly half a million evaders caught in the UK last year, 3,132 of these caught in Bolton alone, the odds are stacked against you if you think you can get away with it. The only safe bet you can make is that watching TV without a licence is not a gamble worth taking."

Licensing bosses are also reminding pubs and clubs that they will need a TV licence to show the Grand National on Saturday.

A colour TV licence costs £116, for information on ways to pay or concessions available call 0870 241 5590 or visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk