FREE energy-saving improvements are on offer.

They are being made available by Kirklees Council to some homeowners and private tenants in the area.

The schemes could include free loft or cavity wall insulation, free central heating, free hot water tank jackets, free energy- saving lightbulbs, free draughtproofing, low-cost loans to install central heating and reduced price loft or cavity wall insulation.

Clr Andrew Cooper, the council Cabinet's member with responsibility for housing and property, said: "The past few weeks have seen even further rises in the cost of gas and electricity.

"This appears to be part of a long-term trend, with the UK having greater reliance on energy from overseas.

"Over 3,000 people have already benefited from this unique scheme and we want thousands more to do the same so they can have cheaper fuel bills and warmer homes."

To find out if you are eligible and to discuss other ways of reducing gas and electricity bills in your home phone the Energy Efficiency Advice Centre on Freephone 0800 512 012 or visit the office on Station Street, Huddersfield, for free advice.

Another scheme is specifically for Kirklees homeowners and private tenants over the age of 60 who have a gross household income of less than £20,000.

This scheme is called Keep Warm and is run by Scottish Power.

For more information on this scheme call Free- phone 0800 028 1141.