POLICE raided two Burnley pubs as part of a crackdown on licensed premises showing Premier League football illegally.

Officers from Lancashire Constabulary licensing department carried out the raids yesterday.

As a result, two licensees were arrested and questioned in relation to suspected offences under the Fraud Act and the Copyright Designs & Patents Act.

Amongst property seized by police was equipment used to receive Premier League matches via the internet and also equipment used to receive the matches via foreign decoder cards.

Both licensees have been released on police bail.

Raymond Hoskin, managing director of Media Protection Services Ltd, who act on behalf of the Premier League, said: "We were called in by Lancashire Police to give technical assistance on equipment found on premises in Burnley.

“Use of illegal means, both by internet devices and unauthorised foreign decoder cards, have become a growing problem in the area following Burnley FC's promotion to the Premier League.

“The income of the majority of Burnley licencees who obey the law and pay the correct fees has been adversely affected by these activities and it is hoped that this prompt action by police will meet some of their concerns.

“We have paid covert visits to many licensed premises in the area and information on further possible offences is being examined.

“Those using foreign decoder cards or internet devices to illegally receive Premier League transmissions can expect to be dealt with.

“They should appreciate that in addition to convictions carrying appreciable fines and costs, they are also placing their liquor licences in jeopardy.

"It is just not worth it."