ANYONE in Halton celebrating their 75th birthday in the next 12 months is reminded to claim a free TV licence.

The free licence will cover all the equipment in their home, meaning family or carers living in the same home will also benefit, even if they are watching on devices such as laptops, tablets and smartphones.

Paul Williams, spokesperson for TV Licensing, said: “It’s important to remember the free licence is not granted automatically so anybody who becomes eligible needs to make sure they apply by getting in touch with TV Licensing directly.”

Anyone aged 74 or over can begin planning for the concession immediately by applying for a short-term licence which will last between one and 11 months.

Janet Morrison, chief executive of Independent Age, said: “The fact that nearly half of older people consider the TV to be their main form of company shows just how important television can be for them.

“Many older people may find it difficult to get out and about due to ill health or mobility problems so the entertainment, not to mention the information provided by the TV can be a real lifeline.

“We would encourage anyone aged 75 or over to apply for their free TV licence if they haven’t already done so. With many older people living on low incomes, the free TV licence is a valuable concession and the saving made could make a real difference to an older person.”

There are currently almost four million free TV Licences in force, including moer than 2,900 in Runcorn & Widnes.