An energy saving task-force has graduated from a pioneering Bradford training scheme.

The graduates, a group of retired volunteers, have received expert training for the last few weeks to become energy ambassadors.

The ten-strong team will now be able to offer energy saving advice to householders across the Bradford area.

The scheme, run jointly by Bradford Energy Conservation Group and Age Concern, is designed to help slash electricity bills and keep the elderly warm during the cold winter months.

Project leader David Parsons, of Bradford's Energy Conservation Group, said: "The project is to show that older people can play a worthwhile role in the community as well as to help people save money on their bills.

"We are hoping to visit 1,500 homes in the Bradford area in the first year. I like to think that it is the Neighbourhood watch for energy conservation."

The energy ambassadors will offer advice which could help people save 20 to 30 per cent off their electricity bills as well as on what grants and money saving options are available.

The project was partly-funded by Yorkshire Electricity and will initially run in the Wibsey, Allerton, Bingley, Keighley and Ilkley areas.

Project leaders are also looking for Asian volunteers to help to help spread money saving advice in Bradford's Asian community.

Regan Cooper, Yorkshire Electricity's community affairs manager, said: "One of our concerns is for elderly people in the community. We want them to use energy wisely and get the most they can for their money."

The T&A reported in March how the project almost failed at the first hurdle when few people volunteered to be an energy ambassador.

But after appeals in the T&A ten volunteers stepped into the breach willing to lend a hand.

Anybody wanting further details can contact Age Concern on (01274) 395144.

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