Hosts' anger as Sky moves Sports 3
Hosts have accused Sky of offering a reduced service for the same money by removing Sky Sports 3 from its basic commercial package.
Sky Business announced it would be freezing prices on its basic and ultimate packages in July, but in mid-August basic customers noticed that they were no longer receiving Sky Sports 3.
Peter Naylor of the White Hart in South Kilworth, Leicestershire, told the MA: "They didn't increase the prices this year, but they removed Sky Sports 3. They did the same last year when they took away Eurosport. So, it's not really true about not increasing prices."
He said when he spoke to the broadcaster, he was informed he could pay an extra £60 per month — or £720 per year — to keep the channel. Naylor has a basic pubs and clubs package.
Chris Bolton, licensee at the College Arms in Reading, was so "disgusted" with the sudden change that he has decided to cancel his contract. "I'm paying more money for fewer channels," said Bolton.
"I phoned up recently to ask why I was unable to receive Sky Sports 3, and was told in a most unfriendly manner that my package could be changed at any time. I pointed out that I hadn't received any notification of the package being changed and that as I had signed up to receive Sky Sports 1, 2 and 3, I believe that this is what I am entitled to receive."
Sky Business response
"We constantly review our channel packages to ensure that channels are in their most appropriate pack. Based on Sky Sports 3's current and future schedules, we felt it should form part of the Sky Ultimate package.
"Even so, all commercial customers, regardless of their package, continue to enjoy access to Premier League football, action from the Coca Cola leagues, UEFA Champion's League, Premiership Rugby, Super League, Test cricket, international rugby union and much more. We believe the breadth and quality of our offering continues to represent great value."
