Residents urged to beat the energy price hikes

The Mayor, Councillor Peter Rush spreading the message with Mr Toast

In the week that many of the big energy firms increased charges for customers, local residents are being urged to sign up to 'Get me Toasty', a scheme designed to reduce their energy bills.

People attending an event at the Nye Bevan Health Centre in Deeplish found out how to take advantage of loft and cavity wall insulation, boiler replacements and other improvements to make their home warmer and more energy efficient. Many people qualify to have the work carried out for free or at a large discount.

The campaign’s mascot, Mr Toast, attended, alongside the Mayor Peter Rush and the leader of Rochdale Council, Councillor Colin Lambert.

Councillor Sultan Ali, Cabinet Member for Housing at Rochdale Borough Council, who also attended on the day, said: “The cost of heating has soared in recent years and for many people utility bills take up a large part of their already stretched household budget.

“The toasty campaign aims to ease this burden and boost the environment at the same time, and with major energy providers hiking up bills, it’s the ideal time for residents to get involved. I’d encourage as many people to take advantage of this so they can stay cosy this winter without breaking the bank.”

The event was run in collaboration with the Greater Manchester Energy Advice Service, approved installers Dyson, Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale and Energywise.

Residents who want to find out more about the scheme, can visit www.getmetoasty.com or alternatively, they can call 0800 009 3363 to find out whether they are eligible and to arrange a free no obligation survey.