PENSIONERS are being urged not to scrimp on their heating as the region is warned of icy cold temperatures, gale force winds and snow over the coming days.

Age Concern in York is also calling on people to check up on elderly neighbours as strong northerly winds were descending, paving the way for "bitter" winter conditions.

A Met Office spokesman said the winds were clearing the mist and fog of recent days, and were bringing snow showers from the north sea into Friday.

The Vale of York is expected to escape with a light covering of snow but the North York Moors could see "significant snowfall", he said.

"There could be some strong wintry conditions on the tops of the moors. Winds over high grounds are expected to reach gale force. It will feel bitterly cold through to Friday and Saturday."

James Player, deputy chief officer at Age Concern in York, said: "Just a bit of ice or severe cold can really stop an older person being able to help themselves.

"The important thing is for older people not to scrimp on their heating. It is very important they keep warm and have the temperature at a reasonable level."

His advice is to eat at least one hot meal a day and have plenty of hot drinks.

Several layers of thin clothing trap the warmth and are better than one bulky layer which restricts movement.

He said: "Wearing a hat indoors when it is particularly cold helps keep the body temperature up while moving around keeps the circulation going."

Mr Player also stressed the importance of stocking up on food and for neighbours to help with older people's shopping when it is icy outside.

"We are always on the look out for volunteers for that sort of thing and it is better people come to see us now so we have people to call upon to help."

A City of York Council spokeswoman, said: "As always, we will closely monitor the conditions and ensure that we are well prepared for spells of extreme winter weather.

"The council has a fleet of 11 gritters and extra teams will be called in to work if the weather gets really bad, so the gritters can operate round the clock."

Meanwhile, North Yorkshire County Council has 100 gritters backed up by about 150 farming contractors to keep open the region's roads.

For advice about heating and to find out if you are eligible for grants towards heating, phone: Energy Efficient Advice Centre on 0800 512012 or Warm Front on 0800 3162814.

Age Concern York also offers advice and help. Phone 01904 627995 or 01904 621020.

Updated: 09:49 Thursday, November 24, 2005