Surviving Winter Appeal Gets Response

In response to the Surviving Winter Appeal by the House of Commons, at least two of the country’s “rich and famous” wasted no time to respond. Second World War hero George Gibson and veteran actor Sir David Jason recently responded to the appeal by pledging their winter allowances to the fund.

The appeal was launched when it became clear that, even with the allowance, many older people were suffering from extreme fuel poverty. For some, the situation is so dire that they will have to choose between staying warm and eating.

According to official figures quoted in the London Evening Standard, more than 2,540 older people died in 2010 as a direct result of the extreme cold.

Sir Jason said: “It would be great to think that all those people who are in a position to forego part or all of their own winter fuel payment could join this great scheme and spread a little warmth."

A working pensioner at 83, War hero George Gibson said: “I'm one of the lucky ones. I would hate having to decide between heating my home and being able to afford a decent meal.

Both gentlemen were among the first to respond to the appeal. It is hoped that many more will.

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