Northallerton is the latest area to be targeted in a crackdown on homes without television licences.

More than 100 licence evaders are caught out each year in the DL6 and DL7 postcode areas, and the TV licensing campaign, Target Zero, is now focusing on the town.

Advanced detection equipment allows inquiry officers to determine within seconds whether a television is being used.

Mark Auslebrook, regional manager for TV Licensing North, said: "Our message to evaders in Northallerton is simple - we're serious about evasion and we will find you.

"The maximum penalty for watching TV without a valid licence is a fine of £1,000.

"Your best course of action is to buy a TV licence now, because it's not worth the risk."