FREE energy-efficient light bulbs are up for grabs at an awareness-raising day next week.

Residents can hand over one ordinary (working) bulb and get two "green" ones in return when they visit Bury Council's energy show house on Tuesday (Sep 23).

The offer takes place during national Energy Efficiency Week, and the council hopes it will encourage people to save energy in their homes and so reduce their fuel bills. It says the average British household spends £590 each year on fuel and power, about £200 too much, and that a typical three-bed semi without insulation can lose 40 per cent of its heat through the loft and walls.

Light bulbs can be exchanged from 4pm to 7pm at the energy show house at 20 Parsonage Street, Bury.

Council energy officer Gwyn McCarthy said: "It's a great deal, but stocks are limited so we advise people to come early. Energy efficient bulbs use at least 75 per cent less electricity than ordinary bulbs and last about ten times longer: that's a great saving!"

The energy show house is open every week on Tuesdays (4pm to 7pm), Wednesdays (1.30pm to 4.30pm) and Fridays (9.30am to 12.30pm). Residents can also ring 253 6366 for energy advice.