FAMILIES and couples living in mobile homes could soon lock out the cold and help save the environment thanks to grants from Herefordshire Council.

Up to £5,000 is available for one-off energy efficiency measures, aimed at making the caravan-style homes into warm and cost-effective places.

Herefordshire has more than 550 mobile homes at 14 different sites around the county.

Under the scheme, solar panels can be installed and wall insulation provided. An interest free loan grant of up to £2,000 is also available through "Take the LEAD" (Loans, Energy, Advice and Discounts).

The scheme will help Herefordshire Council meet government targets over home energy consumption.

The authority wants to achieve a 30% reduction by 2011.

But money is limited and applications for grants and loans will be judged on an individual basis.

Harry and Irene Adams, of Lynton Park, Bromyard, moved into their new home five years ago.

Using the interest-free loan they insulated the walls and fitted a gas condensing boiler and a new radiator.

"The work has already made a difference to the warmth of the property, and we have also noticed a reduction in noise from outside," Mr Adams said.

For more details freephone 0800 512012.