OWNERS of thousands of holiday homes across the region are being given a seasonal safety message which could save lives.

British Gas and travel guide VisitBritain sent out the alert to raise awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning, a "silent killer" gas which kills up to 50 people in the UK every year.

Most of these are caused by badly installed or poorly maintained heating appliances.

By law, owners of rented holiday accommodation such as chalets, cottages and caravans must have gas appliances checked before they can be let.

Safety inspections by a Corgi registered engineer must be carried out annually after that.

Chris Bielby, head of quality and standards for British Gas, said: "Although most landlords act responsibly, the condition of some holiday home heating appliances make them potential timebombs.

"Holiday home owners who let their accommodation should be aware of their legal obligations - an up to date gas safety certificate is a minimum requirement."

The Northern Echo's Silent Killer campaign has put pressure on Government ministers to cut deaths from carbon monoxide and new laws should be in place by the end of this year.

Read more about the Silent Killer campaign here.