Mechanic must pay £150 to listen to radio

A NOTTS mechanic who has worked alone at his garage for 23 years has been told he must pay £150 to play his radio there.

Paul Wilson, who runs Paul Wilson Vehicle Repairs in Miall Court, off Ilkeston Road in Lenton, has been told by the Performing Rights Society that he must have a licence to play his radio while he works.

The 61-year-old, who has been a mechanic since he was 15, has said he cannot afford to pay the fee and has instead chosen to work in silence.

"When I was first contacted by the PRS I thought somebody was having a laugh with me," said Mr Wilson, of Sherwood.

"It is the first time I have ever heard of anything like this.

"I have been listening to the radio since 1963 – ever since I started going to work. I am amazed and feel a bit bitter about the way I have been treated."

Mr Wilson said he offered to send PRS his radio to prove he was not using it, but says they refused and sent him a letter warning him that officers may be round to do spot checks.

Workers at TC Autos, next to his garage, have also received a letter asking for the fee and have now turned their radio off.

Any business playing music must have clearance by the PRS. If licence fees are not paid the PRS can take legal action.