A barbershop caught without a TV Licence has been ordered to pay £330 by magistrates.
Samir Musr, who owns Sam’s Barbers in Friargate, Preston, was fined £135 for using a TV without a licence at his business.
Musr was also ordered to pay £180 costs and a £15 victim surcharge at a hearing at Leyland Magistrates’ Court.
Any business that shows television programmes as they are being shown on TV, whether for customers’ use or in staff areas, must be covered by a valid TV Licence.
If there is living accommodation on the premises where a TV is also in use, this must be covered by a separate licence.
Those without a valid licence are breaking the law and run the risk of a court prosecution and fine of up to £1,000 per offence, plus costs.
Businesses found guilty are also required to buy a TV Licence at £145.50, or they could face a potential second prosecution.
Lucy Baird, TV Licensing spokesman for northern England, said: “We appreciate that these are tough times for businesses, but to be fair to the majority who do pay the licence fee, we have to take action against those who watch TV illegally.
“Those businesses who do try to get away with it might find the price of being caught to be higher than just a fine.
“We would rather businesses think ahead and check if they need a licence than risk being prosecuted.
“A licence costs £145.50 and can be bought in minutes online at www.tvlicensing.co.uk/business.”
TV Licensing is reminding other businesses to make sure they are aware of their licensing requirements, in order to avoid the risk of prosecution and a large fine.
More than 2,700 businesses were caught watching TV without a licence across the UK during 2010 and 2011.
According to research, long term business reputation is more important than any gains made by cutting corners, particularly when it comes to keeping on the right side of the law.
When the Evening Post visited the barbershop on Thursday the TV, on the wall above where customers’ hair is cut, was not on.
A member of staff said Mr Musr was away on holiday.
He said: “We’ve applied for a TV Licence already.
“As you can see it’s not working at the moment anyway.”
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