The British Gas Help the Aged Partnership has advised elderly people to prepare for a colder winter than last year, it has been announced.

Following the UK Met Office forecasting a chillier winter than in 2006, the partnership has advised all people in their senior years to ensure that their boilers are working, in preparation for the cold months ahead.

Chris Bielby, head of safety at British Gas, states that a faulty boiler can result in the production of carbon monoxide, poisoning from which can kill.

A number of energy suppliers provide boiler checks free of charge to people over the age of 60, Help the Aged asserts.

Spokesperson for the charity Anna Pearson states that it is "vital" for older people to maintain the warmth of their homes.

People aged 60 or over are entitled to a winter fuel payment of at least £100, with 80-year-olds and over potentially entitled to £300 in such benefits.