Actor Jeremy Warms To Fuel Poverty Action Bid
by Special to LM, Leicester Mercury
July 16, 1999
A short telephone call could save many lives in Leicestershire this winter.
A major new initiative launched jointly by British Gas and Help The Aged aims to cut fuel poverty among older people in the county.
The campaign, backed by actor Jeremy Irons and television presenter Kelly Brook, aims to raise awareness of the issue.
Local people are asked to ring a special number and listen to a personal message from Jeremy Irons and a pound from the cost of the GBP 1.50 call will be doubled by British Gas and the GBP 2 will be given to the fuel poverty campaign.
One in three pensioners live in severe fuel poverty, spending 20 per cent of their weekly income on keeping warm.
In Leicestershire alone, 496 people died last year from cold-related illnesses, adding to the 20,000 national total, with the death toll rising to 38,000 in severe winters, the campaigners say.
A hundred people donating GBP 1 each would insulate an OAP's home when the money is doubled by British Gas.
Ring 09065 333333.