TELEVISION owners in Great Dunmow have been urged to renew their TV licence early to save money and avoid any heavy fines. According to the UK licence database of 30million addresses, 180 licenses in the town will expire at the end of March and with fees

TELEVISION owners in Great Dunmow have been urged to renew their TV licence early to save money and avoid any heavy fines.

According to the UK licence database of 30million addresses, 180 licenses in the town will expire at the end of March and with fees due to rise in April money could be saved by renewing early.

Joanna Pearce, TV Licensing spokesperson, said: "TV Licensing understands that people are always looking for ways to make their money go further, which is why we are issuing this reminder for those people whose licence will expire in March.

"When you renew your licence, it's also worth checking that you're using the payment method that is best for you.

"You can spread the cost of your licence using a monthly direct debit, which can be set up in minutes online and you will then have the peace of mind of knowing that your licence is renewed automatically."

On April 1, the cost of a colour TV licence will rise by �3 to �142.50. The cost of a black and white licence will rise from �47 to �48.

The level of the licence fee is set by Government and this year's increase was designed as part of a six-year settlement that was agreed and announced in 2007.

Mrs Pearce said: "We would always prefer people to pay for a licence rather than risk prosecution and a fine of up to �1000.

"That is why we offer a range of payment methods so people can pick the one that works best for them."

For more information about ways to pay and the concessions available, visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk/info