Payout for Age Concern Energy customers

Age Concern Energy Services (Aces) is paying at least £10.50 to customers in a bid to reduce their winter fuel bill payments.

The Cold Weather Payment is being issued in a bid to bring some much-needed winter warmth to pensioners.

The minimum payment is £10.50 but this rises to £21 for customers aged 80 or over.

This guaranteed payment is available as part of the Aces package, which is developed in partnership with gas and electricity company, E.ON.

Customers taking out contracts with Aces also receive a free carbon monoxide alarm, two free low-energy light bulbs, a free hypothermia thermometer and free energy efficiency advice.

Mike Abrey-Bugg, of Aces, said: "We know that many older people struggle during the winter months. This year will be particularly hard. As winter takes hold and the credit crunch continues, thousands are likely to feel an even greater chill.

"Our Cold Weather Payment will go some way towards helping older people cope with the cold and manage their finances this winter."

The payment comes in addition to the government's existing Winter Fuel Payment.