A CAMPAIGN has been launched calling for more to be done to insulate homes across Worcestershire.

A total of more than 300 excess winter deaths were recorded in this county and neighbouring Herefordshire in 2012.

This figure represents deaths over and above the average death rate during non-winter periods, mostly due to elderly people dying from being too cold.

Now, Cold Homes Week, which runs until Friday (February 7) aims to raise awareness about fuel poverty and make homes more energy efficient.

The campaign is organised by the Energy Bill Revolution and supported by OFTEC, the trade body for the oil-fired heating industry.

“Proportionally, more older people live in rural areas than in towns and are more likely to use oil for their central heating," said Malcolm Farrow, of OFTEC.

"They are also potentially more at risk of living in fuel poverty as their homes may lack sufficient insulation and rely on older, less efficient boilers.

"OFTEC are supporting several initiatives to help the elderly relying on oil to keep warm."

For more information visit www.oilsave.org.uk