THEY say that if you look after the pennies the pounds will look after themselves. Taking a look at what you can claw back on your annual energy bills will not only give you more cash but help save the planet too.

A major drive to save energy has been launched in Swindon and one householder who took a look at the grants available saved £200 a year.

All that hot air escaping through draughty windows, lofts without insulation and old boilers is costing the earth.

Environmentalists say that you should also buy appliances such as fridges and washing machines that are environmentally friendly by checking the labels to see how energy efficient they are.

It is even worth turning your attention to light bulbs low energy models cost £8 but because they last up to 10 years they actually save you £10 each.

Other measures are much cheaper to put into place in your home just using draught excluders and putting less water in the kettle before boiling can save you a packet.

It's worth every penny to keep warm this winter and save the planet at the same time.

THE future is in the hands of Swindon residents as they get the chance to comment on the council's blueprint for the town.

The public can help decide where housing and employment should be built, how leisure facilities should be improved and how historic buildings should be preserved by commenting on the council's Revised Deposit Draft of the Local Plan.

Voters are also being asked for their views on transport, emergency services and controversial issues such as wind turbines and a university campus.

Shopping in an area close to home may be more important to some people than travelling to out of town centres . And having plenty of green space for children to play in on their doorstep may be a high priority.

The council must listen to everyone's views during the consultation period.

It is important to make those views known now before the planners go back to the drawing board.