More than 15,000 older Glaswegians are set to benefit from a £100 winter warmer thanks to Glasgow City Council’s Affordable Warmth Dividend.

Every city resident aged 80 and over will qualify for the annual payment from the council to help households with heating bills.

And, this winter, it will be easier than ever before to get the cash; with the council paying previous recipients automatically.

Letters are currently on their way to thousands of people who have previously received the dividend – or who, from council records, have become eligible for the first time.

Leader of Glasgow City Council, Councillor Susan Aitken, visited Cromwell Sheltered Housing complex run by Queen’s Cross Housing Association to highlight the Affordable Warmth Dividend. She also presented residents with a lovely floral basket courtesy of Glasgow Flowers.

Councillor Aitken said: “Older people can be very susceptible to the cold, but can struggle to heat their homes during the winter months.

“However, this payment can make a huge difference to help those in our community who are most likely to struggle with fuel poverty. In some cases, it can literally be a lifesaver.

“Nobody in Glasgow should have to choose between heating and eating.”

May Lyttle (aged 81) received the payment last year and will get it automatically this year.

She said: “The payment is an excellent thing and there are people who really, really need it. It can make a real difference - people don’t have to worry so much about their winter bills.”

Anyone aged 80 or above, or who will turn 80 by 31 March 2018, who has not received a letter by 17 November should contact the council to enrol in the scheme.

The dividend is paid to individuals, rather than by household, so each person aged 80 plus living in a property can apply individually. Residents of Glasgow care homes and those in hospital can also apply.

Application forms are available on the council’s website www.glasgow.gov.uk/awd or from Revenue & Benefits offices at 45 John Street in the city centre; 780 Govan Road, Govan or 125 Westmuir Street, Parkhead. Further information is available by calling 0141 287 7961.

Proof of age and Glasgow residency must accompany forms which should be posted to Glasgow City Council, PO Box 36, Glasgow, G1 1JE. The closing date for applications is March 31st, 2018.

Relatives can help the applicant complete the form but it has to be signed and dated by the recipient.