HELP is available from Kirklees Council for older people who cannot afford to heat their privately rented homes.

Energy efficiency officer Kay Beagley helps home owners and tenants of private landlords to get grants to improve heating and insulation.

As well as making their homes more comfortable, good heating and insulation can help to prevent the onset of lung and heart diseases.

Clr David Payne, the council Cabinet member with responsibility for environment and transportation, said: "I am happy to see this important work going on.

"The greatest need is often found among private sector tenants – a group often overlooked in Government initiatives."

According to national statistics, last winter there were 24,000 more deaths in England and Wales than would usually be expected in winter.

Of these, 21,800 were over the age of 65.

Lung and heart diseases are responsible for most of the extra deaths during winter. Flu is often implicated in winter mortality as it can lead to bronchitis and pneumonia, especially in the elderly, although relatively few deaths are attributed to influenza itself.

It is recognised that many winter deaths among older people are due to fuel poverty, which is defined as having to spend more than 10% of income on heating the home.

Anyone who would like more information about the help available for older people in private sector housing is asked to contact Kay Beagley, energy efficiency officer, on 01484 223570.