SIR - The weather is cold, the forecast says colder. Many people's thoughts will be turning to elderly people, who have problems with heating bills. I get both sad and angry on seeing the predictable regional TV item showing an elderly person struggling to keep warm with minimal heating, maximum jumpers and a hot water bottle.

There is additional money to be had on top of the basic pension. It has to be claimed - and the forms are more difficult than they need be.

But there is help with this from the Citizens Advice Bureau, Care of the Elderly, Age Concern and local radio phone-ins. I understand it the extra money that can be claimed is significant.

MAX NOTTINGHAM

Lincoln.