CHILLY homeowners are today being reminded of ways to keep warm over winter.Ipswich Borough Council is issuing advice for the elderly as temperatures get set to drop.

CHILLY homeowners are today being reminded of ways to keep warm over winter.

Ipswich Borough Council is issuing advice for the elderly as temperatures get set to drop.

People over 60 years old are encouraged to apply for winter fuel payments to ensure they have money to keep warm in the new year.

Those under 80 are eligible for £200 and the over 80s are eligible for £300.

Those over 70 are also entitled to a one off payment of £100 to help meet the cost of council tax.

To be eligible for winter fuel payments applicants must have turned 60 before September 26.

Those who received a winter fuel payment last year, or who get a state retirement pension or other social security benefit (except housing benefit, council tax benefit or child benefit) will receive a payment automatically.

There are also Warm Front Plus grants to help owner occupiers or private tenants aged over 60 with installation or improvement of heating systems and in some circumstances people under 60 can get help.

A council spokesman said: "If you want information on staying warm and healthy over winter you can contact the Winter Warmth advice line on 0800 085 7000. It is open between 8am to 8pm Monday.

"If you are unable to pay your fuel bill don't bury your head in the sand do something and get advice. There are organisations that can help you such as the Citizens Advice Service, Welfare Rights Advisers and even the fuel companies themselves."

For further information contact the council's Welfare Advice unit on 01473 433235.