ELDERLY people in the region are missing out on grants to help heat their homes.

Pensions Minister Ian McCartney yesterday reminded North-East pensioners to claim their Winter Fuel Payment before the end of March.

Under the scheme, pensioners can get up to £200 from the Government for help with fuel bills.

Last year, 513,455 payments were made to older people in the region.

Mr McCartney said: "Claims for payments for past winters are not subject to a time limit, and people who think they are eligible but who have not yet made a claim are still able to do so."

The majority of payments are made automatically, but people who are not receiving a social security benefit, excluding Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit and Child Benefit, or who did not receive a payment last year need to make a claim.

Anyone aged 60 or over on or before September 22, last year, may be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment.

Anyone who has not received an automatic payment should call the helpline, on 08459 151515, or visit the website at: www.thepensionservice.gov.uk/winterfuel