HEATING oil users are being urged to save money by stocking up on the fuel before winter in a joint campaign backed by Gloucestershire group that works with rural communities.

Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) has joined forces with Citizens Advice and the Federation of Petroleum Suppliers for the Buy Oil Early Campaign, which is supported by Energy Minister Matt Hancock.

ACRE, the national voice for England’s 38 rural community councils, says stocking up early has a range of benefits as prices and demand tend to be lower in September and delivery is not disrupted by increased demand and icy weather.

ACRE Chief Executive Janice Banks said: “Research shows 36pc of homes in rural areas are off the gas grid, so many households rely on heating oil. In times of high demand, prices can increase rapidly, leaving the most vulnerable unable to afford to adequately heat their homes.

“We are urging households to buy their oil now so that they are prepared when the colder weather arrives and the time comes to switch on the heating.”

Energy Minister Matt Hancock has also backed the campaign.

He said: “The nights are drawing in and winter is just around the corner so we are encouraging people to stock up on oil sooner not later. ”

For details of oil-buying groups and top ten tips for heating oil users visit www.acre.org.uk