PEOPLE across west Wiltshire are being urged to switch off unused electrical appliances for an hour today as part of the Big Turn Off, which marks the annual Energy Efficiency Week.

West Wiltshire MP Dr Andrew Murrison has added his name to a Parliamentary motion calling on fellow MPs to join him in switching off any electrical appliances not in use between 2-3pm today, in a move organised by the Energy Saving Trust.

The aim is to persuade people to think about the consequences of their everyday use of energy.

He said: "People simply don't realise how much energy it takes to leave their TV or PC on standby. The truth is that such appliances will use almost as much energy in this state as when they are in full use."