OLDER people living in Ludlow and south Shropshire are being urged to think ahead to the winter.

While many people are on their summer holiday, the evenings are already starting to draw in and so the charity Age UK is calling on vulnerable people to think about the autumn and winter.

Age UK Shropshire Telford and Wrekin is urging people aged 60 plus to think ahead to the colder winter months, by offering free home-energy checks.

The local charity, that supports older people across the county, has secured some funding to offer a free advisory service which will help to make homes warmer and could save money on heating bills.

Being cold can be particularly dangerous for older people, with Shropshire having one of the highest death rates in the country in colder weather – every year 285 people die from cold-related causes.

The local company working with Age UK STW say it’s not just about keeping warm as improved insulation can also keep people cool during the summer months.

For a free Home Energy Check call Age UK STW on 01743 233123.