A SERIES of events have taken place in south Shropshire as part of a Government initiative to combat fuel poverty.

These were to help people concerned at the rocketing cost of gas and electricity.

Shropshire Rural Community Council organised informal drop-in centres in several locations and provided impartial help and advice on all aspects of saving money on electricity and gas fuel bills.

“We are helping consumers to switch suppliers, which in some cases can save them up to £500 a year,” said chief executive Julia Baron.

“Many people feel a false sense of loyalty to current companies, even though they could possibly get a much better deal from one of the new and smaller energy suppliers such as Sainsbury’s or the Co-op.”