PENSIONERS in east Durham are to be given the chance to find out more about the pension Credit system.

Four sessions are to be held in a campaign, called Pick it up, it's yours, which is being run by the Pension Service to encourage over 60s to collect the money due to them.

Pension Credit has replaced the Minimum Income Guarantee and provides a guaranteed level of income of £102 a week for every single person aged 60 and £155.80 a week for couples.

These amounts may be higher if people are severely disabled, look after someone who is severely disabled or have certain housing costs.

Pension Credit also provides a reward for people aged 65 and over for some of the savings and income they have for their retirement.

This is known as the Savings Credit and is worth up to a maximum of £14.79 a week for single people and £19.20 a week for couples.

Pension Service staff will be at four locations in the west of Easington district to explain the new credit scheme. and what it means for individuals.

Representatives from Easington District Council's benefits team will also be on hand to give advice on housing and council tax benefits.

Councillor Joan Freak, the council's executive member for social inclusion, said: "I would urge pensioners to come forward and see if they are eligible for Pension Credit, if they are not already receiving it.

"Not only may they be entitled to that, but other allowances as well, so it is worthwhile coming along for a check-up.

The advice sessions will be held on Tuesday, at Gully House, Gully Road, Wingate, from 10am to noon, and on Wednesday at Dormand Villas, Station Town, from 10am to noon.

On Friday, January 30, there will be an advice session at Charlton House, Forest Gate, Wingate, between 10am and noon. The final advice session will be held in Hutton Henry Church Hall, from 10am to noon, on Monday, February 2.