MORE than £2,000 was donated to help vulnerable pensioners in Somerset afford their heating bills this winter.

Generous donors have been giving their Winter Fuel Payments to the Surviving Winter campaign, while dozens more say they will boost the total once they receive the payouts from the Government.

The scheme, run by Somerset Community Foundation, raised more than £80,000 last year thanks to more than 400 donors and match funding from housing associations.

SCF chief executive Justin Sargent said an estimated 5,000 pensioner households across Somerset are in fuel poverty, while there were almost 600 ‘excess winter deaths’ last year.

Mr Sargent added that most donations are made in December once pensioners have received their Winter Fuel Payment.

He said: “But by making a pledge now, Somerset Community Foundation can work with its partners to plan ahead and make sure resources are in place to distribute the funds ready for the onset of cold weather.”

To pledge, e-mail info@somersetcf.org.uk or call 01749-344949.

Donations may be made via www.somersetcf.org.uk or by sending a cheque to SCF’s office at Yeoman House, Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6QN.