TV reminder ahead of Rio

With more than 3,000 hours of live sporting action from Rio this summer , TV Licensing is reminding community groups and charities in Banbridge and Dromore to check they are correctly licensed to share the sporting TV coverage as it happens.

Considerable numbers of community groups, sporting and social clubs are expected to host viewing events and parties, where they are set to enjoy landmark Olympic moments at community groups and centres across Northern Ireland. BBC One’s coverage kicks off featuring the Opening Ceremony on 5 August, with live action each day from 1pm to 4am until the Closing Ceremony on 21 August.

On BBC Four, live action will be available every day from 1pm to 4am.

TV Licensing has produced a Guide for Community Groups, which answers common questions asked by groups and includes information about holding one-off live viewing events and refunds.

Community groups can view or download the “Guide for Community Groups” at http://www.tvlicensing.co.uk/check-if- you-need- one/business-and-organisations/clubs-and- community-groups- aud10

Karen Grimason, spokesperson for TV Licensing said: “Community groups will need to buy a TV Licence if they plan to watch the coverage live but can claim a refund for any unused quarters if they only need a licence for this one-off sporting event.

“Social and community group managers have been prosecuted in Magistrates’ courts in the past year.

“We would always rather people pay for their TV Licence than risk an embarrassing prosecution and fine of up to £1,000.”

Olympic Gold Medallist, Dame Mary Peters, said: “I know that the Olympics will be hugely popular and are sure to be celebrated widely across the country, so any group or charity that’s planning an event with live viewing must make sure they are prepared.”