Readers call for more sport to be available on free-to-air TV as Paralympic Games added to Government's 'crown jewels' list

The major sporting event will be available for all to watch after the government added it to the 'crown jewels' list of protected events.

The Ofcom Code on Sports and Other Listed and Designated Events created the so-called 'crown jewels' list in 1991.

Following the announcement we asked readers, ‘do you think more sports should be available on free-to-air TV?’

And the overwhelming response was in favour of keeping sport more accessible to all by showing it on free-to-air TV, rather than keeping it on channels that audiences have to pay to subscribe to.

One reader, Trevor Riant said: “League and FA cup's, and international sporting competitions should be available to all, not just paid subscribers.”

Northumberland Gazette readers were among those in favour of more sports on free-to-air TV. Out of more than 100 votes, 71% of readers said yes, while just 29% said no.

Echo readers were also in favour of more sports on free-to-air TV. Out of more than 200 votes, 82% of readers said yes, while just 18% said no.

Gazette readers agreed that they would like more sport on free-to-air TV. Out of more than 100 votes, 76% of readers said yes, while just 24% said no.

And Hartlepool Mail readers were also keen for more sports on free-to-air TV. From more than 70 votes, 82% of readers said yes, while just 18% said no.