THOUSANDS of homes in the Hambleton district of North Yorkshire are to benefit from a scheme to deliver a range of energy efficiency measures.

The ‘GoWarm’ initiative will see 10,000 homes in the Bedale, Thirsk, Northallerton and Stokesley areas visited by an assessing team in the coming months.

It will also provide free benefits advice.

The district council is backing the scheme as part of its efforts to reduce fuel poverty and carbon emissions across the district over the next two years.

Councillor Ralph Andrew said: "This is a great scheme for the people in Hambleton.

"By insulating their homes, householders can save up to £300 a year on energy bills as well as reduce their carbon emissions by up to one tonne a year."

The GoWarm project – run by Domestic Energy Solutions, has been operating across since the end of 2007, helping more than 65,000 householders.

In Hambleton, anyone who is in receipt of certain benefits or over the age of 70 will qualify for free energy efficiency measures while everyone else can take advantage of the heavily subsidised measures - paying only £99 for cavity wall and loft insulation.

GoWarm director Karen Hindhaugh said: "Insulating your home is a quick and easy way to make it more energy-efficient and substantially reduce your annual fuel bills.

"The whole process is very simple and we urge householders to complete the short doorstep assessment when the assessor calls so that we can help them."

All assessors are easily identifiable in their dark green uniforms and carry identification.

Anyone who has any concerns about the identity of an assessor can call GoWarm on 0191-536-4185.

An online assessment form can also be completed at gowarm.org.uk