BOLTON MP Dr Brian Iddon is urging hard-up residents to seek help if they are having trouble paying their energy bills.

Dr Iddon, who represents Bolton South East, has given his backing to National Energy Action’s Warm homes Campaign, which aims to raise awareness of the help available.

It comes after recent Government statistics revealed that during the winter of 2008/9, there was a 49 per cent rise in excess winter death across England and Wales.

He said: “The winter is a difficult time for many households in the UK and with energy prices remaining high it is important to look at ways of improving energy efficiency to bring people’s energy bills down and make homes healthier to live in.”

Residents who think they may be eligible for grants should call the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 66 99 for more information.