A total of £1M will be distributed to Bolton's pensioners this winter to help deal with the cost of living crisis.

Bolton Council has issued more than £1m in cost-of-living support to residents of state pension age.

And Town Hall chiefs say they are currently putting together a package to help all ages cope as costs rise.

This will include warm hubs.

Warm hubs are going to be popping up all over the country.

They will allow people to stay warm for free when the costs for heating their own homes is becoming too much.

Manchester City Council, for example, is planning on using its libraries.

Bolton Council has confirmed that it too is planning on opening warm hubs, the details of which are due to be released in the coming weeks.

Energy bills and inflation on the high street are the biggest challenges facing people, with worries many will have to choose between heating and eating this winter.

This first announcement is to help the most vulnerable elderly people in Bolton.

In total, 10,094 eligible residents have each received a £100 Post Office cash-out voucher funded via the government’s Household Support Fund.

To qualify, residents must be of state pension age and be in receipt of pension credit, housing benefit or council tax support.

The vouchers have been issued automatically, and there is no need to apply for them.

To claim the cash, residents should take their voucher and proof of identity to any Post Office branch before the end of December.

Alternatively, a friend or family member can claim on someone’s behalf by bringing the voucher and their own ID, along with the claimant’s ID and a signed letter of approval.

Anyone wishing to have the money paid into their account should also bring their bank details.

Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Cllr Andy Morgan, said:“The rising cost of energy bills and other essentials means this will be a challenging winter for everyone.

“Older people can be especially vulnerable which is why Bolton Council has allocated £1m from the Household Support Fund to residents of state pension age who receive certain benefits.

“This is part of a wider package of cost-of-living support for residents of all ages and we will be confirming more details in the weeks to come.”