People aged over 75 in Swindon will join millions of senior citizens across the nation eligible for free TV licences.

From November 1, 8,047 people in town will be able to watch TV for free.

They are among three million over-75s in the country who were just babies when John Logie Baird demonstrated the first "televisor" in 1926.

As part of the special licence's launch in the South West, the TV Licensing Authority dropped in on residents at Fessey House Day Centre to show off the distinctive black and yellow document.

Jon Abrahams, head of TV Licensing Contract Centres, said: "We have a huge task ahead of us so we appreciate our customers' co-operation.

"Everyone who has applied will receive their licence and any refund they are entitled to as quickly as possible."

People eligible for the licence can call a helpline on 0845 603 6999 or 0845 602 3334 and be prepared to give their name, address, date of birth and national insurance number.