AN initiative that helps vulnerable people combat fuel poverty has been commended by MP Helen Goodman.

The Bishop Auckland MP praised the Warm Front scheme that has helped thousands of residents in her Bishop Auckland constituency.

Warm Front, a Defra (Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) scheme to install heating and insulation into the homes of vulnerable people, has been running for five years.

It has helped 3,784 households in Bishop Auckland, Shildon, Spennymoor and Teesdale, and has cost £1,782,095.79.

Ms Goodman said: "Far too many local people are struggling to heat their homes, often at serious risk to their health.

"I meet constituents who have no idea that they could qualify - it's a great shame that some are missing out."

For details of the Warm Front scheme, call 0800 316 6014.