AN EMLEY couple battling with crippling multiple sclerosis have been waiting eight months for a gas supply to their home.
And it seems that Kenneth and Sheila Maddison, who moved into a bungalow in The Crofts last June, are set to go on waiting.
Kirklees Council workers took out the coal fire to fit central heating when the couple moved in - then nothing else happened.
Innumerable phone calls later, they are still waiting for a date for their home to be connected.
The delay has involved landlord Kirklees Council, which owns the bungalow, and gas pipeline operator Transco.
Mrs Maddison suffers from multiple sclerosis, which severely restricts movement, and has had to endure the bitterly cold winter months.
Mr Maddison said:
"We have been told time and time again we are on the list but nothing has happened.
"It's lucky we've got such nice neighbours because we often go next door to get warm!"
Emley is a former mining community. Most miners received free coal for their fires and therefore didn't need central heating.
The Maddisons' bungalow is one such council property.
The Maddisons were told by Kirklees Council that the delay was caused by the gas pipeline company Transco.
Mr Maddison added: "I keep ringing up the council and the gas people but we never get any joy.
"The council tell us that the delay is coming from Transco's end and that they can't set us a date.
"I wouldn't mind but it's not a massive job. Other houses in the area have gas and for us to still be waiting is a disgrace. We use electric heaters but they cost too much money."
A spokesman for the council said work had to be carried out by Transco.
A Transco spokesman said no work was planned in the Emley area in the immediate future, but promised to investigate the Maddisons' complaint.
