A CAMPAIGN being spearheaded by the Yeovil Express in association with MP David Laws to encourage pensioners to apply for the new pension Credit has had a good response.

Mr Laws is trying to raise awareness about the new Pension Credit - which is to be introduced in October - because the Government has said that more than one million pensioners across the UK will miss out on the money which they are entitled to receive.

"I would like to congratulate the Yeovil Express for backing this important campaign and for helping to make sure that local pensioners apply for and receive the money which they are owed," he said.

"Dozens of local people have already contacted my office to say that they have already applied for pension credit or to ask me for more information about it. This is a good first step and I would encourage everyone who thinks they may be eligible for the Pension Credit to ring the Pension Service on 0800 99 1234 - it is possible to apply over the phone."

Mr Laws has now tabled Parliamentary Questions to find out what action the Government is taking to advertise the Pension Credit.

"If it is not advertised there is a great risk that only the pensioners which the Government writes to will know that the Pension Credit even exists," he said. "This is why raising awareness locally about Pension Credit with the help of the Yeovil Express is so important. I will also be trying to secure a debate with Government Ministers on this issue.

"I personally believe that the best way to help pensioners is to substantially increase the basic state pension.

"The Government's policy of introducing means tested benefits means that many pensioners who aren't aware of these benefits could miss out.

"However, we must accept the situation as it presently is, and I will work hard locally with the Yeovil Express to help make sure that local pensioners do not lose out."