MORE than 24,000 students in Somerset could be entitled to a £50 TV licence refund as they head home for the summer.

Since April, the way TV Licensing calculates refunds means anyone who bought their licence last October and moved out in May could get back around £50.

To qualify, students need to be leaving their halls or rented accommodation and be moving to a licensed address.

Applying for the TV licence refund is simple and can be done online or over the phone.

Students need to have their TV licence details to hand and evidence to show their licence is no longer needed, such as a copy of the end of their tenancy agreement.

Richard Chapman, spokesman for TV Licensing in the South West, said: “We’re encouraging all eligible students to take up the refund, which is quick and easy to apply for.

"It’s important students buy a TV licence when starting university to take advantage of the flexible payment options and avoid a fine of up to £1,000.”

A licence is needed for watching and recording live television and watching or downloading BBC programmes on iPlayer.

This applies whether using a TV set, laptop, mobile or any other equipment.