TENS of thousands of people could benefit from a new project to tackle fuel poverty and energy inefficiency.

GoWarm, launched by Domestic Energy Solutions, will help people claim heating-related benefits and offer discounted loft and cavity insulation in County Durham and parts of Teesside and Wearside.

Defra is providing start-up funding and GoWarm has pledged to visit more than 180,000 homes in the first two years of the project .

Chris Leek, chief executive of Domestic Energy Solutions, said: "There are thousands of homes across Durham, Teesside and Wearside which we know we will be able to help through the GoWarm Scheme. This is a major project that will benefit thousands.

"Many people simply don't appreciate what benefits they're entitled to and we want to help unlock these, as well as show them the advantages of proper insulation. It's great news for homeowners right across the region.

Durham County Council deputy leader Clive Robson said: "We're delighted to be working with Domestic Energy Solutions and its GoWarm team.

"In addition to the cost benefits of this scheme for homeowners, it is a huge environmental plus point for the region.

"Properly insulated homes mean heating doesn't have to be on as long or as high and that can help to cut our carbon footprint."

GoWarm will target areas that have not benefited from big schemes such as Warm Zones and districts, including Sedgefield and Easington, are likely to be among the first to be earmarked for assistance.