Hundreds of Scots still watching TV in black and white

More than 550 people in Scotland are still watching television in black and white.

Black and white sets still need a licence. Picture: TSPL

Glasgow hosts the largest number of black and white sets at 200, followed by Edinburgh with 55.

Britain became the first country in Europe to offer regular programming in colour back in 1967, yet almost 10,000 black and white licences are still in force across the UK.

TV Licensing Scotland revealed the figure as it reminded viewers that they need a licence, however dated the model.

Spokesman Jason Hill said: “It’s astounding that more than 550 households in Scotland still watch on a black and white telly, especially now that over half of homes access TV content over the internet, on smart TVs.

“Whether you have the latest 4K TV or a black and white set from the 1970s, if you are watching or recording live television, then you do need a TV licence.”

Regular colour broadcasts began on BBC2 in July 1967 with the Wimbledon tennis tournament – three weeks ahead of West Germany. 
The number of black and white licences issued each year has been in steady decline since.

The cost is £49 compared to £145.50 for a colour licence.

Jim McLauchlan from the Museum of Communications in Burntisland, Fife, said there are an increasing number of collectors of old black and white sets.

He said: “It is now some years since I have come across anyone using a black and white television, though the occasional person has one tucked away in their attic.”