Windfall boost for home heating

VULNERABLE residents have been given a £190,000 boost to help them keep warm this winter.

The money, successfully bid for by Oldham Council, is a share of a £46 million government fund to help reduce fuel poverty, improve energy efficiency and encourage collective switching.

Of 136 applications received, only 61 received money.

The council will use the windfall to pay for central heating system upgrades in the most vulnerable households in Oldham.

The latest funding is on top of the £89,540 the council was awarded from the Department of Health in November, which is being used to offer home visits and fuel debt help.