TV licence evaders in the town have been getting 'creative' with their excuses over the past year.

The questionable explanations were picked up by leading universities across the country which are competing to bring them to life through animations as part of a national competition.

In a quest to find the best excuse degree course students have worked their magic and created animation videos.

A panel of industry experts will be judging footage, with prizes to be awarded for the people's choice and judges' award.

Excuses from Warrington residents included 'I only put the TV set on to drown out the noise of my neighbours arguing all day' and 'I don't need to buy a licence because I am getting married'.

Others included 'I was too busy with the bingo to set up a TV licence' and 'I am a vicar, part of the clergy – why do I have to pay?'

But the most bizarre comes from a resident who claimed to have injured his leg.

He said: "I have an injured leg which is in a cast. I was scratching my leg under the plaster with my payment card and it fell in, now I can't get it."

However, despite the humour, TV Licensing chiefs are reminding the public that dodging a payment is no laughing matter.

Matthew Thompson, TV Licensing spokesman for the north, said: "We're impressed with the creativity some people show when coming up with an excuse but it's important to remember that watching or recording live TV without a licence is against the law.

"Even though we're effective at catching evaders, we'd always prefer people pay than risk a maximum £1,000 fine.

"For those who may find it difficult to pay in one go, we offer a range of payment options to spread the cost."

More than 40 excuse films have been submitted from students across the UK.

View and vote for your favourite at youtube.com/tvlicensing.

For further information visit tvlicensing.co.uk/info or call 0300 790 6112.