TV licence dodgers warned

MORE than 1,890 viewers were caught without a TV licence in Rotherham last year, new figures show.

TV Licensing spokesman Tim Downs said: “On behalf of licence fee payers in Rotherham, we are committed to tackling evasion and enforcing the law among the small minority who should pay, but don’t.

“It’s only fair. People are given every opportunity to pay, but, if they fail to do so and watch TV illegally, we will seek a prosecution.”

Fines of up to £1,000 can be handed out for not holding a valid licence, which costs £145.50 a year for a colour set.

Mr Downs added: “TV viewing is as popular as ever, with the number of households who have a television at nearly 97 per cent.

“It’s our role to make sure everyone is aware of when they need to be covered by a licence.

“The penalty is a fine of up to £1,000, plus court costs and a victim surcharge.

Anyone found guilty is also required to buy a licence or they could face a second prosecution.

“It’s really not worth the risk.”

Pay your licence at www.tvlicensing.co.uk/info or by calling 03007 906112.