PEOPLE on benefit can find out if they can get extra money to keep warm during what is expected to be a colder than normal winter.

Durham County Council's Welfare Rights Team will hold a session at County Hall, Aykley Heads, Durham, on Friday, between 10am and 4pm, as part of its campaign to tackle fuel poverty.

An estimated 11 per cent of people are living in fuel poverty in the county and the Wealth for Warmth campaign aims to help those who cannot afford to heat their homes properly or are running up bills with energy suppliers.

Visitors will be able to get a benefit check to ensure they are not missing out on any money, apply for a home energy grant for insulation, check gas and electricity bills are correct and get advice on how to deal with arrears and find a suitable energy supplier. Trading Standards will also give advice on cold calling and home improvements.

The campaign is being run with organisations including Age Concern, Energywatch, and The Energy Saving Trust.