Fuel-cost advice for villagers

Saddleworth villagers are being invited to a key meeting which will reveal how to save money on fuel costs.

Despite the recent decrease in the cost of fuel to the provider, consumers have seen little or no benefit in their pocket.

And it is forecast fuel bills will continue to rise by about 5 per cent each year.

The Patient Participation Group (PPG) from Smithy Lane, Uppermill, together with the Saddleworth Parish Council, has arranged a meeting to discuss the issues.

A presentation by the AWarm Group from Manchester will look at how to change your supplier, get a grant for insulation, and how to conserve heat.

The organisers believe that all residents will be able to save some money.

Kath Edwards, the PPG chair, said: “Cold houses can affect people’s health in many ways, particularly if they spend a lot of their day sitting due to mobility problems.

“Examples could be people with arthritis, heart or chest conditions. And it is not only older people either — children coming home from school to a cold house, often suffer from more frequent illness and cannot concentrate on homework.

“This could have implications for their education long term,” she said.

She appealed to residents to attend the meeting on Tuesday, October 13, at Uppermill Civic Hall.

“If you know someone this is likely to affect, please come and find out how you can help them live a warmer healthier life,” she added.

Residents who cannot attend the meeting — which begins at 7.30pm — are advised to contact Tony Marlor at the Civic Hall in Uppermill, on 01457-876665, or Kath Edwards on 01457-871598, e-mail: kathleen.e@btinternet.com