Age UK has revealed that as many as 25,000 older people will die from the cold this winter; quite shocking in the 21st century. The energy companies should hang their heads in shame.

Surely they could cut costs for the elderly. The government has tried by insulating people’s homes but that just scratches the surface of the plight these people are in. I would urge elderly people, who I know are too proud to ask for help: you are the people who deserve help.

In the meantime, I hope the government does all in its power to avoid this dreadful tragedy from happening this year.

Shirley Pickett Ermin Street Swindon