A CAMPAIGN to encourage Darlington residents to have their electric blankets tested is being launched by local MP Alan Milburn.

Darlington Borough Council's Trading Standards is working in partnership with the town's 50plus Age Concern to provide free safety checks as part of an Electric Blanket Safety Testing Campaign, running from Monday to Wednesday, October 18 to 20.

Ninety-seven per cent of fires caused by electric blankets occur when the blanket is more than ten years old, and of all those brought in for checks from across the borough last year, 49 per cent were found to be unsafe.

Dr Glen Reynolds of 50plus Age Concern said: "We are very pleased to work yet again with Trading Standards to promote safe use of blankets this coming winter.

"Testing is so simple and can be a life saver, especially if your electric blanket is getting on in years."

Blankets will be checked by a qualified engineer and, if shown to be unsafe, the Council will offer to dispose of the blanket, while arrangements have been made with Morphy Richards to offer discounts on a replacement.

Safety checks will be made at 50plus Age Concern, Bradbury House, Beaumont Street West, Darlington. For more information, call (01325) 362832.