PEOPLE living in Barnsley are being invited by the council to take advantage of heavily discounted work to improve their homes and lower their fuel bills.

As part of the Better Homes Barnsley scheme, residents will be offered help to pay for items such as insulation and boiler replacements.

The scheme is open to residents who own or privately rent their home with funding from the Government's Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation programmes.

Coun Roy Miller, a spokesman for the council's cabinet, said: "Initially, we will be targeting properties in and around the Cudworth and Penistone areas to offer them chance to participate in the Better Homes scheme by installing room in roof insulation.

"The cost of the works will be heavily subsidised and funding is time-limited and so people who receive a letter from us over the coming weeks are encouraged to respond quickly."