TV Licensing chiefs are chasing up people living on their boats for telly fees.

Scottish Canals has announced that the number of Scots living and working on the nation’s canals has quadrupled since the launch of its Living on Water initiative three years ago, with more berths available to would-be houseboat owners.

The organisation has 11 mooring sites across the country, including the nearby Bowling Basin.

By law, residential boat owners who are watching or recording TV programmes at the same time as they are shown on TV need to be licensed. This is true no matter what device is used, how the programmes are received, or whether the boat is cruising or moored.

Jason Hill, spokesman for TV Licensing Scotland, said: “We don’t want anyone to experience that 'sinking feeling’ if they are found watching live TV on board without a valid licence. If caught, boat owners face prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.” The Post told earlier this month how 137 people in West Dunbartonshire were caught out not paying their TV licence last year — but only one person was prosecuted.

Thirty-six men and 101 women were snared by TV licensing chiefs for not stumping up the annual £145.50 fee.