MAYOR of Taunton Deane Borough Council and Wellington town councillor Vivienne Stock-Williams is backing a campaign to encourage pensioners to give unwanted winter fuel payments to those in need.

Generous OAPs in Somerset have given about £100,000 to this year’s Surviving Winter campaign.

The money raised will be used to provide Surviving Winter grants to some of the poorest, most vulnerable older people in the county.

Somerset Community Foundation, which is administering the scheme, plans to give out at least 500 grants to help people heat their homes during the colder weather.

Winter fuel payments range from £150 to £300 and are usually received between mid-November and Christmas. Donations can still be made by credit card online at www.somersetcf.org.uk/winter

Donations can also be made by phone on 01749 344949 or by cheque made payable to Somerset Community Foundation – write SW on the back – sent to Yeoman House, Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet BA4 6QN.