TV LICENSING chiefs say people are coming up with lame excuses for evading payment for their licence.

Figures show 94-95 percent of people across Britain have a licensed TV, but those without one are still using excuses as to why payment has not been made.

TV Licensing has put together a list of their best excuses from people when challenged about their lack of licence. These include, “It’s only for the dog to keep him company when I’m out” and “I don’t need a TV licence because I’m Jesus Christ!”

Leah Bryant, TV licensing spokesperson for Wales said: “We are effective at catching evaders but it’s not surprising a few of those caught will try and avoid taking responsibility. Less than two per cent of households only watch catch up TV, so the vast majority of homes still need a TV Licence.

Some of the humour and originality in this year’s excuses provided a laugh for our Enquiry Officers and customer service centre staff, but behind every excuse is someone who has been caught watching or recording live TV without a licence.

“We would much rather people buy a TV Licence, which they can pay for either in one go, or in smaller weekly or monthly instalments, than make a fanciful excuse and face prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.”