NEWPORT'S armchair sports fans could be 'for the high jump' themselves as TV Licensing plans a crackdown on local licence fee evaders during the Olympics.

As millions settle down to watch the Games' major events in Athens, a team of inquiry officers will be out on the city's streets to track down TV fans who have not bought a licence.

During a similar crackdown during Euro 2004, TV Licensing netted 75 football fans in Newport.

So as they sit down to watch Newport's Christian Malcolm race in the 200m, licence fee evaders should be aware they could face a trip to court and a fine of up to £1,000.

Sara Powell, spokeswoman for TV Licensing, said: "We've been warming up for this campaign. Our database of over 28 million addresses shows us which properties are unlicensed, so while our athletes go for gold, we'll be going for licence evaders.

"But having said that, we always prefer people to pay for a TV Licence before they get caught.

"Over half of those who pay for a TV Licence currently use direct debit, so if you too want one less thing to worry about during the Olympics then call us on 0870 2415590 or visit www.tvlicensing .co.uk/dd to set one up."

You can also pay by credit or debit card, by post, at any post office. There is a Cash Easy Entry scheme for those who receive income-related state benefit, which you can find out more about by calling 08457 289289.

Steve Holgate, regional manager for Wales, said: "Our recent recruitment drive has paid dividends, with more inquiry officers out on the streets successfully catching evaders in Newport at all times of day.

"With our database, inquiry officers and detection vans at our disposal, the odds are stacked against evaders.

"The message is clear - buy a licence."