FUEL poverty is now in the distant past for a New Cumnock man after he was the 5,000th to benefit from a new scheme.

William Timpany’s house has been transformed thanks to Warmworks Scotland, a £224m joint venture between the Energy Saving Trust, Everwarm and Changeworks.

It is part of a Scottish Government programme, called Warmer Homes, which aims to lift people out of fuel poverty.

Every winter was a struggle for Mr Timpany, and getting worse each time, as his boiler couldn’t cope with the drop in temperature.

After being referred to Warmworks via Home Energy Scotland, a surveyor explained that he qualified for the scheme and would be able to get his boiler replaced at no cost.

Mr Timpany said: “I was really impressed with the efficiency of the entire process.

“Everything was installed without hitch and right on time.

“The aftercare has been excellent. I haven’t had to get in touch with anyone, other than to thank the team for providing me with the ability to keep my home warm and my mind at ease.”

Warmworks Scotland puts the customer first at all times from the moment of referral through to the installation and inspection of energy saving improvements.

Kevin Stewart, Minister for Local Government and Housing, said: “I am delighted that Warmworks Scotland has reached a key milestone in assisting its 5,000th customer.

“There is great potential in combining energy efficiency programmes with job creation and local economic development.

“By improving the energy efficiency of homes across Scotland we are contributing to tackling climate change, and also helping to create socially and economically sustainable communities.

“We are delighted that the scheme has already been able to make such a significant impact in local areas.”

To find out more about Warmer Homes Scotland, or to make an application, call Home Energy Scotland free on 0808 808 2282.