A total of 174 young people between the ages of 18 and 25 were caught watching live TV or BBC iPlayer without a TV Licence in the past year in Preston , according to new figures released by TV Licensing.

With more than 24,000 students at the University of Central Lancashire, TV Licensing is reminding students they could face prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000 if they are caught watching live TV, or BBC programmes on iPlayer, on any device, without a TV Licence.

Recent research  shows that the number of students taking a TV to university has risen from 23% to 27% since last year.

Despite the explosion in popularity of smartphones and tablets, a television is still the most used device for students watching live or recorded TV.

However, for those watching BBC iPlayer, most are using a laptop, with 65% watching on their portable computer and 28% watching on their smartphone.

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Matthew Thompson, spokesperson 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 – 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 to be covered by a TV Licence.”