COUNCIL house tenants in east Durham have been warned that time is running out to claim cash from a Government "keep warm'' fund.

The Warm Front scheme, which offers insulation grants of £1,000 is about to be changed and those living in council properties have been advised to act fast or miss out.

Under current rules, it is likely many Easington District Council tenants would be eligible for the grant.

The payment is subject to certain criteria such as claiming benefits or allowances, for example income support.

The grant is currently available to council tenants and private homeowners alike, but the eligibility clauses are due to be changed soon.

The new criteria will mean council tenants will no longer be eligible to apply.

Cliff Duff, the council's energy conservation officer advised tenants not to leave it too late and risk being turned down for one of the free grants.

He said: "Tenants should make sure they don't miss out by acting now, before it is too late.

"Anyone who is eligible for one of these grant can look forward to a warmer home and lower fuel bills.

"They should contact the grant hotline on freephone 0800 3166001 to see if they qualify for the free Warm Front grant.''