TRIPS to watch live football in local pubs could be in jeopardy, according to a North Yorkshire MP.

Selby MP John Grogan has attacked Sky's plans for increases of up to 22 per cent in Sports channel subscriptions for pubs.

The average pub already pays about £300 a month for the right to show live matches from the Premiership and Nationwide league and Mr Grogan fears the

many will not be able to afford the hike.

The Labour MP said: "The increases could result in a reduction in the number of licensed premises showing live sporting events.

"BSkyB should review its planned price increases in recognition of the fact that its commercial success has been built on the patronage of 30,000

licensed outlets across the country."

Publicans have warned that, while some games involving big clubs or England internationals lead to busy pubs, most do not attract large numbers.

Paul Clarey, landlord of the Rose & Crown in Lawrence Street, York, was not happy about the increase, but said he would stand it this time round.

He said his pub was packed on big football nights. But he warned: "One day, they will push it too far."

Besides the annual subscription to Sky Sports, publicans also have to pay extra to show pay-per-view matches and this is also increasing, from £200 to £400, for the next football season.

Mr Grogan, an expert in media rights, has joined forces with 20 MPs to demand the re-think by Sky.

They also want the Office of Fair Trading to immediately re-open its investigation into BSkyB's pricing structure for licensed premises.

Mr Grogan has been a passionate campaigner for as many people as possible to have access to sporting events on television.

In the past he has called for golf's Ryder Cup to be shown on terrestrial TV, rather than satellite.

Updated: 10:27 Wednesday, July 23, 2003