Televisions get a kicking during World Cup

Claims for damaged televisions rose eight-fold during the World Cup as screens were shattered by flying footballs and airborne smartphones, an insurance firm revealed.

Zurich said the number of accidental damage claims to TVS between June 14 and July 15 was eight times higher than the same period last year.

Among the most common causes for wrecked TVS were footballs being kicked at them, causing sets to topple over, and mobile phones being hurled in excitement. Other causes included drinks being spilt down the back of TVS, causing the image to distort.