RESIDENTS in certain areas of Weymouth and Portland could be eligible for a grant to pay for central heating and insulation for their homes.

HEAT Melcombe Regis is helping residents secure grant funding towards the cost of installing a gas central heating system at their property for the first time.

The organisation said that in most instances, the grant will cover the total cost of the complete works including the mains gas connection.

The grants can also help with boiler upgrades, loft or cavity wall insulation and low-energy lighting. The money is allocated from Dorset Council as part of the government's Warm Homes Fund.

The offer is available to homeowners, landlords and tenants, although it does not apply to those in social housing.

Subject to meeting the qualifying criteria, certain complete central heating systems, heating upgrades and insulation works are free of charge.

Eligible areas include Melcombe Regis, Littlemoor, Westham and Underhill on Portland.

However people who live elsewhere and are on benefits or who have low incomes may also be eligible, as well as people with high energy costs or who suffer from cold-related illnesses.

For more information visit www.heatmelcomberegis.org.uk; email info@heatmelcomberegis.org.uk or call 01305 550556