WINSFORD’s MP has urged elderly residents to seek help if they are worried about rising energy bills this winter.

Unusually high energy bills during the colder winter months are a serious concern for the elderly, according to a survey carried out by comparison website, comparethemarket.com.

The survey of 2000 over 65 year olds found that nearly almost a third claimed to ration household energy consumption every year.

Some residents admitted that their health suffers because they limit the amount of heating they use during winter.

Antoinette Sandbach MP said: “Despite a December which was milder than usual, the cold weather set to descend on the UK raises further concerns for the elderly over how to stay warm in winter.

“Nearly half of respondents think they will have to ration their energy consumption in the coming months.”

According to the comparethemarket.com survey, more than half of those aged 65 or older (54 per cent) were concerned they would not be able to pay their bills from their income or pension alone.

Almost a quarter, (22 per cent) admitted they would dip into their savings or use credit, and 42 per cent said they would consider cutting down on expenditures such as food to cover the cost.

The majority said they relied on thick curtains, draft excluders or wearing extra layers such as jumpers or jackets to stay warm, rather than turning on the central heating.

James Padmore, head of energy Insurance at comparethemarket.com, said: “When it comes to staying warm in winter, nobody should be left out in the cold.

“It is deeply concerning that, when the temperature drops, so many of the elderly generation are rationing their fuel usage to save money, at the expense of keeping warm."

Ms Sandbach urged elderly residents to take advantage of the Government’s Winter Fuel Payment.

The scheme allows residents born before January 5, 1953, the opportunity to claim between £100 and £300 tax-free to help pay their heating bills.

She said: “If constituents are worried about the process, I would urge them to ask relatives or the Citizens Advice service for help.”