DOZENS of young people across Sussex were caught watching live TV or BBC iPlayer over a one-year period without a valid licence.

Figures published by TV Licensing reveal more than 190 people aged between 18 to 25 were traced between September 2016 and the end of August.

Across the UK, more than 33,000 young people were caught over the same period.

With 78 per cent of undergraduates aged 24 and under, TV Licensing is reminding new students they could face prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.

Recent research shows BBC iPlayer continues to be the most used service for catch up and on-demand by students, with 81 per cent of students in Sussex and the south of England using the BBC platform.

The study also revealed more than 53 per cent of students thought it would be would be very embarrassing to get caught without a licence.

Half of all students think it’s highly likely they’d be caught.

TV Licensing spokesman for London and the South East Ben Craig said: “With many students owning at least one device capable of showing live TV or watching BBC iPlayer – such as a laptop, smartphone or tablet computer – 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 watch catch up programmes on BBC iPlayer, you need a TV licence.

“Students and young adults need to be aware of their legal responsibilities.

“If students are concerned about paying for a TV licence, they should get in touch.

“We know some people struggle to pay and there are many payment options available. These range from paying in one go to spreading the cost over the year.”

If students live in halls of residence and watch live programmes in their room, they will need their own licence, as do those in share houses.

Shared houses with joint tenancy agreements require only a single licence for the home.

For more details visit tvlicensing.co.uk/studentinfo – or call 0300 790 6113.