Health minister Ivan Lewis has today urged elderly consumers to prepare for cold weather as the run-up to Christmas approaches.

Mr Lewis's appeal coincides with the launch of the government's Keep Warm Keep Well campaign, which aims to reduce the number of cold-related illnesses and deaths during the winter months.

Coordinated by the Department of Health, the campaign advises senior consumers to ensure that they keep warm and maintain a healthy lifestyle through eating and drinking sensibly, exercising and wearing appropriate clothing.

Keep Warm Keep Well also urges people to keep an eye on neighbours who may be at increased risk during the colder months.

"There are millions of pounds of grants available for help with insulation and heating systems and fuel payments to help older people," Mr Lewis states, advising consumers to find out what aid is available to them throughout the winter.

Consumers over the age of 60 who normally live in Great Britain or Northern Ireland can apply for winter fuel payments, which supplement the cost of additional heating during the colder months of the year.