NORTH Swindon MP Michael Wills has welcomed figures that show thousands of Swindonians are getting winter fuel subsidies.

"Winter fuel payments from the Government are helping thousands of vulnerable older people in Swindon," he said.

"Over 17,200 people in north Swindon will benefit from winter fuel payments of between £100 and £300 this year."

Payment will automatically be given to people 60 or over in the week of 20 to 26 September, 2004 and getting a state pension or other social security benefit, or who got a payment last winter. Others can download a claim form from thepensionservice.gov.uk/winterfuel or call 0845 9151515.