EIGHTY pensioners in Swindon died from cold-related illnesses last year.

Now Age Concern is encouraging people to fight the freeze and has just published its free guide to keeping warm and healthy.

The charity's Swindon director, Jo Osorio, said: "It's a scandal that in this country old people are still at risk from winter weather.

"We are working very hard with organisations like the council and health services to make sure that people know there are insulation grants available.

"There is also help available to pay bills and to try to ensure people are safe during the winter.

"Fortunately in Swindon, it has been some time since we have had cold weather over a long period of time.

"But it's important that people get ready. We have plenty of tips and advice to help."

During winter 2001-2002, there were 70 excess winter deaths in South Swindon and 10 deaths in North Swindon.

Excess winter deaths are defined as the difference between the number of deaths that occurred in the winter months (December to March) and the average number of deaths during the preceding autumn.

Dulcie and Geoffrey Francis, of Walcot, reckon they have managed to keep warm at winter because they are good with their money.

"We cope because we always make sure there's enough money aside," said 71-year-old Dulcie, a retired clerk. But husband, Geoffrey, 74, recognises there are many pensioners not as fortunate as them.

One campaign - The Beat the Winter Blues campaign aims to help these people with a fixed cost electricity and gas scheme solely for the over-60s.

Organised by Staywarm from Powergen, no matter how much electricity and gas customers need, the over-60s pay a fixed low price for a year based on the number of people in their home.

Staywarm's local adviser Neill Reed said: "It is totally unacceptable that many people aged over 60 cannot afford to heat their homes adequately and face the cold spell in fear of their winter fuel bill.

"These latest figures show there is a real increase in mortality in the winter and the over 60s are one of the groups most at risk.

"We want to ensure that as many people as possible know there is help available."

All eligible customers are also referred to the Warm Front scheme, which provides grants of up to £2,500 for insulation and heating measures.

Copies of Age Concern's guide to keeping warm and healthy are available now. You can either call 01793 692166 or drop into the Age Concern office in 14 Milton Road, Swindon between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday.

Common sense suggestions

Tips to keep warm and well this winter:

Fix a layer of foil behind the radiators.

Close your curtains at night to keep heat in your home.

Wear lots of thin layers at home and when outside.

When outside, wear something on your head and if cold at home, wear a night cap or scarf and thermal underwear to keep warm.

Keep moving any activity makes you stay warmer. If you have difficulty walking, you could try moving your arms and legs.

Useful contact details:

Staywarm scheme freephone 0800 1694694

Department of Health winter warmth help line freephone 0800 085 7000

Age Concern 01793 692166