Residents urged to use comparison website

Residents worried about rising energy bills are being urged to switch to a better deal using a new comparison website.

The www.betterenergydeals.org.uk site has been launchedafter five of the big six energy companies announced they will be increasing their prices over the winter, leaving some families struggling to pay their bills.

Residents are being urged to visit the site to find out how much they could save by changing to another supplier.

Simply enter your postcode and information about how much you are currently paying to find suggestions for alternative suppliers offering cheaper contracts.

You'll also be given information about how long those contracts have been 'fixed' for - meaning if you decide to switch suppliers you will know exactly how long you will be paying the new price without having to worry about unexpected increases.

Households using a similar comparison website have saved an average of £141 on their energy bills, while some people have saved as much as £344.