RESIDENTS of Darlington can have the safety of their electric blankets tested for free this week.

Darlington Borough Council's trading standards team and 50plus Age Concern are running their annual safety testing campaign from today until Wednesday to try to prevent fires caused by faulty blankets.

Almost half of the electric blankets tested in Darlington last year were found to be unsafe to use. Those found to have faulty blankets this year will be offered discounts on a replacement.

Dr Glen Reynolds, of 50plus Age Concern, said: "We are very pleased to work yet again with trading standards to promote safe use of blankets this coming winter.

"Testing is so simple and can be a life saver, especially if your electric blanket is getting on in years."

To arrange to have your blanket tested at Bradbury House, in Beaumont Street West, you need to contact (01325) 362832.