BOSSES are being warned that hundreds of workers may be tempted to "take a sickie" during the Commonwealth Games.

Many sports fans will have already approached employers about taking time off work.

But it is believed many others could be seduced by good weather and the spectacle on offer -- while others may be put off finding their way to work through traffic jams.

The cost to businesses in and around Bolton could be substantial, according to Manchester-based solicitors Berg and Co.

The company's message echoes the warning given to firms during the World Cup when many people took time off to watch England.

Alison Loveday, a spokesman for the commercial law firm, said: "There is a fear that employee absenteeism could be a problem. Employers need to raise the issue now and remind them that they have to follow the usual holiday booking procedures."

The 10-day sporting event starts on July 25 and runs until August 4.

Most of the events will be screened live on television by the BBC and some people may stay at home to watch them.

During that time, traffic is also expected to dramatically increase in volume around Greater Manchester as people travel to and from events.

Traffic jams could encourage some people to decide to stay at home and ring in sick -- another worry for firms.

The Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive has already admitted there is a likelihood of chaos in some areas, with Horwich and Rivington being particular problem areas because of the lack of specific Games transport.

Miss Loveday said firms would be entitled to take disciplinary action if the employer had evidence the worker was lying about his absence.

Yet she warned companies of the need for firm evidence. "It would be dangerous to assume that because an employee is a fan of mountain biking and is off on the morning of a road race in Rivington, that he or she is not genuinely sick," said Miss Loveday.