Knowsley Council's Care and Repair project will provide heaters to households whose boilers have broken in extreme conditions.

Councillor Graham Morgan, cabinet member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills, said: "Our Care and Repair Service is something that Knowsley residents can depend on, particularly in an emergency.

"The recent cold weather has seen demand for our heaters soar, but we've been able to keep up with demand and make sure nobody is left vulnerable in their own home."

Sheila Bersin, chaiman of Knowsley Older People's Voice, said: "For some people particularly, having no heating in their home can be extremely serious, even life threatening. So it is extremely reassuring for them to know this service exists and has been able to help everyone who has been in touch, even at a time when demand was so high."

Residents are also offered advice on grants and loans available to make improvements to their heating system of insulation.