SIR - I thought your readers may like to know that the deadline for claiming winter fuel payments is fast approaching.

Winter fuel payments are made by the government to help, people aged 60 or over, on or before September 24, 2006, and who normally live in Great Britain or Northern Ireland.

Those who qualify for a payment should receive £200 per household. Households with someone aged 80 or over may get an extra payment of £100.

Most people need not do anything and should be paid automatically if they receive a social security benefit (apart from child benefit, housing benefit or council tax) during the qualifying week September 18-24, 2006, and /or received a payment last year and their circumstances and contact details have not changed.

Other people can find out if they are eligible by calling 0845 606 5065 or visiting www.thepensionservice.gov.uk/winterfuel Finally, for free help on how to reduce your winter bills, call energywatch on 0845 906 0708.

Karl Brookes, Energywatch