RESIDENTS who use oil as their main heating source could save money on their bills as part of a new scheme.

Ryedale District Council and Scarborough Borough Council are backing the project to encourage local people to become part of Oil Buying Co-operatives.

The councils, in partnership with Yorkshire Energy Partnership, have employed Helen James as a dedicated oil buying cooperative coordinator to help residents to save money on heating bills.

Helen said: “Oil Buying Cooperatives are a great way to cut your fuels bills and reduce your carbon footprint. If you and your neighbours join forces and buy through your local oil buying cooperative in bulk you can save up to 10% off your fuel bills.

She added: “The oil cooperative will reduce the amount of tanker journeys being made, helping the environment. “

According to figures from the 2011 Census around 24% (5,355) of households in Ryedale have oil as their main source of heating.

Councillor Robert Wainwright, chairman of the district council’s scrutiny committee, which is looking at the issues relating to fuel poverty in the region, said: “ Because Ryedale is such a rural area a large part of the population rely on oil and solid fuel for their heating supply.

“I am sure that the valuable work undertaken by the Ryedale and Scarborough Oil Buying Co-operative Co-ordinator will provide savings for many local people – as well as having a positive effect on the carbon footprint of Ryedale."

For more information contact Helen James on 07702736265.