PENSIONERS in the south of Warrington have claimed almost £350,000 worth of Government money designed to keep their houses warm.

That is according to new figures from the Eaga Partnership, which show 469 residents in the borough have benefited from the grants since April 2003 to improve heating and insulation.

To qualify for the money, which has provided new central heating and repaired boilers to the elderly, house holders need to own their own home or rent from a private landlord, and they need to be aged over 60 and on income or disability benefit.

Some people aged under 60 can claim if they are on disability benefit, low incomes and are pregnant or have a child under 16.

Helen Southworth, Warrington South MP, said: "It might be getting warmer outside, but now is the time to apply, so everything is sorted by next winter.

"I want to make sure that every Warrington pensioner who needs it can get a grant to make their home warmer.

"I urge everyone who is eligible to call and we'll have no more cold homes next winter."

Call Warm Front free on 0800 3166014 to see if you are eligible.