Recent figures released by TV Licensing have revealed that after more than 50 years of colour transmissions, 32 households in Fermanagh are still watching television via black and white TV sets.

Despite an increase in the use of smart televisions, as well as tablets and smart-phones to access TV content, 566 households in Northern Ireland are ignoring 21st Century technology in favour of nostalgic monochrome TV sets.

According to this year’s Northern Ireland figures, Co. Antrim leads the way with 165 monochrome licences, followed closely by Co. Tyrone with 157.

The number of black and white TV Licenses still in force across the UK exceeds 7,000, although numbers are steadily declining.

Spokeswoman for TV Licensing, Karen Grimason said: “Over half of the UK’s TVs now connect to the internet, so it’s interesting that more than 7,000 households still choose to watch their favourite shows on a black and white telly.”

“Whether you watch EastEnders, Strictly or Question Time in black and white on a 50-year-old TV set or in colour on a tablet, you need to be covered by a TV Licence to watch or record programmes as they are broadcast. You also need to be covered by a TV Licence to download or watch BBC programmes on iPlayer, on any device.”

A TV Licence is needed to watch or record live TV, on any device including a laptop, tablet or mobile phone. For more information see the TV Licensing website.