A CAMPAIGN was being launched today to help struggling elderly residents get through the winter.

The Surviving Winter Appeal is calling on all who can afford it to forgo their Winter Fuel Allowance and donate it to vulnerable citizens struggling to find the funds for soaring energy bills.

It’s in response to shocking findings that more than 2,700 vulnerable people died in Birmingham and the Black Country last winter from causes directly attributable to the cold and poor living conditions.

The Birmingham and Black Country Community Foundation is one of 42 foundations across the UK co-ordinating the appeal in different areas.

The scheme is also being championed by Sirs Terry Wogan and David Jason.

Sir Terry said: “This is an excellent way for people to help some of the most vulnerable older people in their area.

“I’ll certainly pass my payment on, and encourage everybody who can, to contribute towards it.”