THOUSANDS of pensioners in Kirklees are missing out on vital benefits - to the tune of £11m.

But many are struggling needlessly.

Despite a wealth of schemes to put money back in their pockets, many elderly people are living in hardship.

A new drive, led by Kirklees Council, was launched yesterday to show older people the vast amounts of cash to which they are entitled.

Rather than scraping by with continual money worries, council staff and workers from a number of agencies made it clear there were measures that could make retirement an enjoyable, active and fulfilling time of life.

And they said every conceivable help would be given to people in line for more money.

The Lighten Your Load scheme was unveiled at Huddersfield Town Hall.

Clr Paul Battye, Kirklees Cabinet member with responsibility for revenues and benefits, told the elderly: "It's your right. "You won't be claiming anything you are not entitled to."

Nationally, it is estimated than each pensioner is missing out on about £6.50 a week.

While some people would be entitled to less, others can expect substantially more.

Jane Brady, head of Kirklees's revenues and benefits service, said: "In total, we estimate there is around £11m of housing and council tax benefit that remains unclaimed in Kirklees every year.

"Although many of the customers who could claim benefit may only get a few pounds a week, this money could make a big difference to pensioner households," added Ms Brady.

* The pensions helpline can be contacted on 01484 414764.

HARRY, 87, and Mary, 82, own their own house and pay a council tax bill of £1,005.29 every year.

Their total income comes to £253.58 per week. Harry also receives an attendance allowance. They have savings of just under £7,000.

They completed a claim for benefit in June, 2004.

The Government allows the council to backdate claims received from pensioners to October, 2003. From October, 2004, the backdated period will be 52 weeks.

The couple received a backdated benefit totalling almost £120 as a lump sum and have had a further £230 knocked off this year's council tax bill. In total, Harry and Mary are now £350 better off.