ELDERLY people can find out how to claim extra Government benefits after Easter.

Age Concern is holding events to show that many older people in County Durham could cut their council tax bill by up to £425 a year.

The charity is launching its annual Your Rights week on Monday, April 19. The drive aims to help older people boost their income by claiming the benefits to which they are entitled.

Harriet Gibbon, chief officer, Age Concern Durham County, said: "The mountain of benefits cash unclaimed by pensioners is too high.

"Council Tax Benefit and pension Credit are just two of the many benefits available to older people in County Durham to help increase income and save on bills - but only if older people claim what is rightfully theirs."

In the past year, the charity has helped 4,500 older people claim their benefits worth about £1.5m.

Advisors from the charity will hold drop-in sessions in Age Concern House, Atherton Street, Durham City, a week on Monday, from 9.30am to noon and 1pm to 3pm.

On Tuesday April 20, they will be at Stanley Court, Stanley, 10am to noon, and Townley House, Stanley, 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

No appointment is necessary, but anyone with a benefits query is advised to take details of their income, savings and National Insurance number. For further details, contact 0191-386 3856.