THE conning of a pensioner out of a large sum of money, as you reported in the Star, and the onset of real winter weather, prompts me to write to you on a subject which concerns all of us especially the elderly and infirm.

In 'The News' produced by St Helens Council, under the heading 'Your Guide to Survival', several telephone numbers were listed as helplines in the event of problems with gas, water and electricity.

The one for Manweb referred to 'supply problems'. The 'supply' means up to the main fuse. Any failure inside the house, for whatever reason, is the responsibility of the householder.

This may be obvious in the calm light of day, but it is not so obvious late at night, when, as was the experience of a friend, a total failure occurred at 10.15pm.

At 87 years, arthritic, with a heart condition but still of sound mind, Manweb was phoned. In essence the above information was given to the operator who in return explained Manweb's position.

Either the Manweb operator or BT, found the number of a 24 hour electrician in Liverpool. This my friend rang and at about 11.15pm a man came out from Anfield.

The electrician could not have been kinder. He checked everything which could have caused the total failure. He isolated the fault, which was the failure of the central heating pump, restored light and power and phoned British Gas.

Therefore my advice is try to trace a 24 hour electrician before an emergency arises. Keep the phone number handy. Be sure the likely cost is ascertained, and try to have some cash available.

As a footnote I would add that my friend was given to understand that council tenants would have received help from Manweb, but for some reason not private houseowners.

VMR (name and address supplied).