SOME 253 young people in Bolton were caught without a TV Licence in the past year according to recently released figures.

With over 9,000 students at the University of Bolton, TV Licensing is reminding students that they could face prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000 if they are caught watching live TV or using BBC iPlayer on any device without a licence.

Matthew Thompson, spokesman for TV Licensing, said: “Every year there are myths which circulate around campus about when you do and don’t need a licence. As most students own at least one device capable of showing live TV or watching BBC iPlayer, it’s important they know the law around being correctly licensed.”

If you’re watching live TV on any device, including mobiles and tablets, or watching catch up programmes on BBC iPlayer, you need to be covered by a TV Licence.

However, students are covered by their parents’ licence if they only ever use a device powered by its internal battery to watch live TV or BBC iPlayer programmes.