TV AND radio presenter, Valerie Singleton, is backing a campaign to support older people in fuel poverty.

Dorset Community Foundation, which is based in The Spire in Poole High Street, has been running the Surviving Winter Appeal since 2010, which has collectively raised over £80,000 to be distributed in the form of grants to disadvantaged pensioners to pay their heating bills.

Valerie Singleton, who is best known for presenting Blue Peter in the 1960s, said: "It is shocking that many older people are at risk and often suffer in silence, having to choose between heating or eating.

"If you don’t feel that you need your winter fuel allowance please donate to this wonderful initiative to help a local older person in need.

"As little as £200 can save someone’s life."

Since the re-launch of the appeal in November, Dorset Community Foundation has collected nearly £23,000 donations. The money raised is dispersed in the form of grants through the local Citizens Advice Bureau network to local older people over 60 who are struggling during the winter months.

For more information, go to Dorsetcommunityfoundation.org or call Dorset Community Foundation on 01202 670815.