RESIDENTS are being encouraged to drop a line to their MP at a campaign caf opening in Middlesbrough.

Age Concern Teesside is running the caf on February 27, at its offices in Borough Road, from 9am until 4pm.

Older people, their relatives and friends are invited to go to the caf to enjoy a coffee and write down their views about pensions and other issues to their MP.

The chancellor has announced the basic state pension will rise in April from £67.50 to £72.50 and income support for pensioners from £78.45 to £92.15, but Age Concern is campaigning for £90 a week pension.

Dave Punshon, of Age Concern Teesside, said: "The increases in the basic state pension and income support are welcome, but Age Concern research shows older people need at least £90 a week to live on, and that is best provided through the state pension rather than means-tested support which many older people do not claim.

"Our campaign caf will provide older people, their families and friends with the opportunity to express their views on pensioner income and ensure their voices are listened to in the campaign for a more adequate basic state pension."

Refreshments and writing materials will be free.