Students preparing for university this autumn are being urged not to forget a TV licence.

Now is a crucial time for them to check when a licence is needed and the payment options available, said TV Licensing.

Spokesman Jenny Wilkinson said: “In this exciting time of planning, budgeting and getting organised, it’s important students understand they’ll need their own TV licence for student accommodation.

“There are a number of ways to pay for your licence, for example as a one-off payment or by smaller Direct Debit instalments.

“Another good reason for planning ahead is the student refund – anyone who buys a TV licence at the start of term in September could qualify for a refund when they move back home for the summer holidays.”

A licence is needed to watch or record any programmes at the same time as they are shown on TV, regardless of the equipment used – this includes laptops, tablets and mobile phones.

Anyone who watches TV without a licence faces a fine of up to £1,000.

For more details, visit tvlicensing.co. uk/studentinfo.