ALTHOUGH summer is just around the corner, people are being urged to think about keeping warm next winter.

Now is the time to apply for a Warm Front grant which helps residents keep healthy, save energy, cut the cost of their fuel bills and keep their homes warm throughout the year.

Since April 2003, almost 300 residents in South Swindon have benefited from energy saving as a result of the free Warm Front grant from the Government.

Julia Drown, MP for South Swindon, said: "The link between health and warmth has been well established and these grants are a great way of keeping you warm and also keeping you healthy.

"It's a shame that many people are missing out on the benefits."

To qualify, householders need to own their own home or rent from a private landlord. They also need to be in receipt of an income or disability related benefit.

Residents can contact the Warm Front team on 0800 316 6014 to apply for a grant.