A seven-day run of freezing temperatures has entitled people across Oxfordshire to extra help with heating costs.

The £8.50 cold weather payment is made automatically by the Government to many pensioners and benefit claimants.

The payments are made when the average daily temperature for the seven days has been zero degrees centigrade or below, or is forecast to be zero degrees or below for seven consecutive days. They are in addition to a £200 winter fuel payment made to the over 60s.

Those receiving the Minimum Income Guarantee, Income Support or Income Based Job Seekers' Allowance get the extra money if:

They have a child under the age of five;

They, or their partner, are aged 60 or over and receive a pensioner premium;

They, their partner, or child receive a disability premium.

For details, call the Winter Warmth Line on 0800 085 7000.