AFTER five successful years, energy efficiency grants are available once again from the borough council.

Homeowners in the borough who are aged 65 or over may be eligible for an energy efficiency grant of up to £500 to help to pay for cavity wall and loft insulation.

You can apply for a council energy efficiency grant if:

- You are a homeowner aged 65 or over.

- You are not claiming a government grant for energy efficiency measures

- Or your home is in council tax band A, B or C.

The scheme initially began as a pilot in 2003/04 in the borough's priority grant zone area, and was later made available throughout Ellesmere Port and Neston. Since then hundreds of residents have taken advantage of it.

The borough's private housing renewal unit manager, Rachel Gammon said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this grant for a sixth year.

“Many homeowners don't realise that 35% of household heating is lost through their walls and 25% through the roof.

“Improving the insulation of your home will make it warmer and at the same time significantly reduce your heating bills.

“I urge homeowners aged 65 and over to contact us on 0151 356 6472 to find out more.”