PENSIONERS are being given the chance to take part in a scheme that could save their lives.

Last year, 30,000 elderly people in the UK died from illnesses related to the cold.

To try to combat this problem, a scheme has been arranged to offer cheap electricity and gas to everyone over the age of 60.

The scheme coincides with the Government's winter fuel payments, and allows elderly people to make small regular payments and use unlimited electricity and gas to make sure their homes are warm.

Anyone interested in the scheme can find out more on Friday, in Darlington Town Hall, from 10am to 4pm, or at the Environmental Centre in West Row, Stockton, from 10am to 4pm on Wednesday, October 17.