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10,000 without TV licence in NI

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More than 10,000 people in Northern Ireland were caught watching TV illegally - without a licence - during the first six months of the year.

All those caught risk potential prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.

Across the UK 214,000 people were caught without a licence, 10,300 in Northern Ireland, an evasion rate of just over 5%.

Belfast had the highest number of people caught evading, 3,114.

It was followed in the top ten by Craigavon, 681, Dungannon, 654, Newry, 608, Enniskillen, 400, Londonderry 352, Newtownards, 335, Armagh 325, Ballymena, 311 and Lisburn 289.

Deborah King, TV Licensing spokeswoman said the figures showed their continued effectiveness in catching people who watched TV illegally and penalised the honest majority who do pay.

She said: "While evaders come from all income groups, we understand that in the current economic climate some people may find it difficult to pay their licence fee in one go.

"This is why we provide numerous ways to spread the cost, including monthly Direct Debit, which can be set up very quickly online, and a weekly cash payment plan."

A colour licence currently costs £142.50 a year.

© Press Association

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