I AM writing in response to British Gas's extraordinary price increases.

By September 21, British Gas will have increased the cost of gas by 18 per cent and electricity by 15 per cent in less than 10 months.

This means that thousands of East Lancashire homes will be paying £47 more for their gas and £25 for electricity. An investigation of the gas wholesale market is required.

The good news is that even before these record price increases, consumers across East Lancashire are could save over £100 by leaving British Gas.

So to find out how much you could switch to another energy supplier and save over £100, you need your supply number (on your bill) and an idea of your energy consumption.

If you're unsure, Call British gas and ask them how much you've paid them in the last year.

Then call energywatch on 0845 9060708 or visit www.energywatch.org.uk <ht

tp://www.energywatch.org.uk/> and we will help you to get the best fuel deal possible.

DAVID SIDEBOTTOM, Director of energywatch North West, 5th Floor, Boulton House, Manchester.