NEXT week will see the launch of the Big Energy Savings Week at a local advice charity.

Clackmannanshire Citizens Advice Bureau (Clacks CAB) is hoping to slash the amounts Wee County residents are forking out for their energy bills.

The campaign will launch on Monday, January 20, as part of a national drive, funded by the UK and Scottish governments and in partnership with Home Energy Scotland.

Four key groups of people are in particular being urged to take advantage.

They include those who use electric heating, householders in debt to their fuel suppliers, people who live in homes that are hard to heat and residents who are excluded from the digital world and cannot access online-only deals.

Two events will be held locally by Clacks CAB as part of the initiative.

The first will take place on Tuesday, January 21, at Reachout with Arts in Mind on Lime Tree House in Alloa between 2pm and 4pm.

On Friday, January 24, the CAB will be at the Bowmar community Centre in Alloa between 9.30am and 12.30pm.

Head along to one of the above for advice on reducing fuel bulls or visit Clacks CAB on Burgh Mews for drop-in sessions between 10am and 3pm, Monday to Thursday, or 9am to 2pm on Fridays.

In 2018-19 £1.3million in savings was delivered to people across Scotland when they visited with energy-related issues.

That amounts to an average saving of £232 per case.

Jonny Miller, manager of Clackmannanshire CAB, said: “In 2018-19 we provided energy advice and assistance to over 1,000 households in Clackmannanshire and that’s why Big Energy Savings Week is so important.

“Many people aren’t sure where to start when it comes to reducing the amount they are spending to heat their homes.

“Our trained advisors can give you free, confidential and impartial advice which could help you access specialist services to help you reduce your bills or make your home more energy-efficient.

“So, if you feel left out in the cold with your energy bills or supplier come to us and we’ll be able to help.”