EXPERTS have urged North-East people to take winter weather more seriously after research showed that cold weather kills hundreds every year.

Health officials are recommending that everyone should consider wearing warm clothing, including hats and gloves when going out during winter.

Researchers have also recommended that it should be made easier to get help to insulate homes.

The study found higher levels of investment in energy-saving in Tees Valley homes compared to north Durham.

A review of winter deaths carried out by the County Durham and Tees Valley Public Health Network showed that in the worst year - the winter of 1999-2000 - about 1,200 people died in County Durham and the Tees Valley.

The study looked at a six year period from 1997 to 2003 and found that the number of people dying from the cold ranged between 500 and 1,200 a year.

Deaths were about 15 per cent higher when temperatures dipped below zero.

Older people and those with chronic heart and lung disease were at particular risk.

Public health expert Dr Mark Reilly said: "People can reduce the risks of cold by wearing more layers of clothing, indoors and outdoors.

"Several thinner layers of clothing under a coat will keep the body warmer than one thick layer.

"Wearing a hat and gloves outdoors will help to maintain body heat even more."

While acknowledging that millions of pounds had been spent on improving the energy efficiency of North-East homes, he said further action was needed to upgrade the quality of housing stock.

Information for householders is available by calling the Energy Efficiency Advice Centre, on Freephone 0800 512 012, or the Energy Saving Trust, on 0845 727 7200.