MANY rural households in the region will struggle to heat their homes this winter, say researchers.

A survey in rural areas of County Durham found that two thirds of respondents spent more than ten per cent of their household income on heating – meaning they are officially fuel poor.

More than half of those questioned said they found it quite difficult to afford heating fuel.

And three quarters of County Durham residents said they had turned down their heating during the winter months to save money.

The survey also found a link between fuel poverty and bad health, with many fuel poor households containing someone who suffered from a cold-related condition, such as asthma.

The study was conducted by the Rural Services Network for the Commission for Rural Communities to explore the depth and impact of fuel poverty on rural households.

It looked at four areas of the region – the Wear Valley, Easington, Teesdale, and St John’s Chapel – as well as rural parts of the East Riding of Yorkshire and Shropshire.

The survey found that rural households are likely to suffer from fuel poverty because they live in old, poorly-insulated houses not connected to a mains gas supply.

Lower than average wages in rural economies was also a factor Graham Russell, executive director at the Commission for Rural Communities, said: “The depth and impact of fuel poverty in rural communities we targeted was concerning.

“(It) shows that further investigation and solutions to tackle rural fuel poverty are needed by national and local government, delivery agencies and energy suppliers working together.”

Durham County Council helped produce the study and Cliff Duff, energy efficiency team leader, said the authority was developing a strategy to help rural homeowners reduce their fuel bills.

He said: “For example, all homeowners qualify for a free home survey as part of the Durham Home Insulation Scheme to assess if they qualify for free or subsidised insulation.”

Residents interested in insulating their home can contact Durham County Council’s Warm Homes campaign on 0191-527- 0501.