PEOPLE in Northumberland are being urged to get together and use their bulk buying power to secure a better deal for themselves on energy prices.

The county council is working with 11 other local authorities across the country to set up one of the first ever UK collective energy switching schemes.

And it is inviting registrations from householders. Once details are collected, the partnership of councils arranges an auction where the energy supplier which offers the cheapest tariffs will win the contract.

Following the auction, every person who has registered will get a personal offer. There is no obligation to take the deal. The auction is due take place on December 18 and all those who want to register must do so by December 14.

Coun Andrew Tebbutt, executive member for corporate resources, said: “A lot of people are still paying more than they need to for their gas and electricity, and we hope this scheme will help many residents to reduce their costs, which is increasingly important during these difficult financial times.”

To register or get more details go to www.readytoswitch.co.uk. Or email the council at Energy@northumberland.gov.uk or call it on 0845 6006400.