YORK MP Hugh Bayley has backed a campaign aimed at keeping homes warm by making a house call to a constituent who has benefited from it.

Audrey Walker is now able to fight off the winter chill after having a new central heating system installed under the Government's Warm Front Scheme.

Run by National Energy Action (NEA) and management agent eaga plc, with support from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), it provides grants worth thousands of pounds to make homes warmer and more energy-efficient through a package of heating and insulation improvements.

They are available to both those who own their own home and tenants who gain the permission of their landlords. People aged over 60, parents or guardians of children under 16 and some pregnant women are eligible if they receive certain benefits, as may others.

"At this time of year, it is important that people are able to keep themselves warm," said Mr Bayley. "The installation of central heating systems and cavity wall insulation are just part of a range of measures the Government has introduced to improve the lives of pensioners. I hope anybody who thinks they may be eligible for a grant will pick up the phone and apply today."

To find out if you qualify for help from the scheme, phone Freephone 0800 612 8735.