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THE Scottish Government are pumping £7.5million into a scheme designed to help Scots beat the winter blues.

The boiler scrappage scheme will see up to 18,000 householders get more efficient boilers installed.

The additional funding – part of a £65million budget to tackle fuel poverty – could see the SNP Government meet their commitment to provide support for 30,000 new boilers three years ahead of schedule.

Alex Neil, Cabinet Secretary for infrastructure and capital investment, said: “The Boiler Scrappage Scheme has been a resounding success, helping to deliver new boilers to 12,000 households over the past year.

“We have boosted investment by a record £7.5million this year to extend support to thousands of households ahead of the cold weather.”

One couple who have already benefitted from the scheme are Marilyn and Douglas Bell, of Stewarton, Ayrshire.

Marilyn said: “Our old boiler was over 20 years old and kept breaking down. We were worried about getting through another winter.

“Having a new boiler fitted has given us real peace of mind and the process of applying for the voucher towards the cost of the boiler and arranging to have it replaced was really simple.”

• The Home Energy Scotland hotline is the one-stop shop from the Scottish Government offering information, help and expert advice on how to save energy and money in the home.

Scots can get in touch with the hotline on 0800 512 012 or visit homeenergyscotland.org.uk