TV-LICENCE dodgers in Mansfield topped 1,300 in 2012, figures revealed have shown.
This was twice as many as in Worksop, but stats show it was only just five per cent of homes that had been watching TV illegally.
Mark Whitehouse, TV Licensing spokesperson for the East Midlands, said: “In order to be fair to the law-abiding majority who do pay for their licence, we’ll continue to pursue the small minority of people do not pay.
“We do understand some people may find it difficult to pay in one go, which is why we offer numerous ways to spread the cost.”
Ways to pay the £145.50 annual colour licence includes a weekly cash payment plan, a savings card or a monthly Direct Debit.
Those caught without a licence could face a fine up to £1,000.
The licence is required for anyone wathcing or recording TV programmes, including those watching TV programmes on a computer.
Head of Creditor Relations at StepChange Debt Charity, Richard Haymes said: “TV Licensing makes it easier for us to help clients keep within the law. We welcome the many ways to pay – this will help people on lower incomes plan and meet their TV Licensing requirements and we would ask anyone experiencing difficulty with payments to contact TV Licensing so they can provide additional advice.”
A colour TV Licence currently costs £145.50 and is required by anyone watching or recording TV programmes as they are shown on TV, whether they are using a TV set, computer, or any other equipment.
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