INVERCLYDE'S MP says that nearly 160 local people have been referred for financial help to pay their energy bills.

Together Ronnie Cowan and colleague Stuart McMillan MSP recently held drop ins at their offices in a bid to address fuel poverty.

The MP reported 30 people queueing at the door before they opened their offices, with similar scenes at Mr McMillan's office.

Both SNP men had organisd the events along with social enterprise the Wise Group to provide vital information and hand out fuel vouchers.

A recent report in the Tele highlighted the problems locally as people in the Broomhill area struggle to pay their heating bills following a decision by River Clyde Homes to increase district community heating costs by 115 per cent.

They are now signposting their tenants and residents to energy support as a result of the rises.