British Gas is to work in partnership with eight local authorities to deliver the biggest ‘Green Deal' energy efficiency programme in the country.

The utility company will deliver improvements to up to 50,000 households and businesses in the North East through the ‘Warm Up North' scheme, which has been backed by the Association of North East Councils.

The partnering authorities include Durham CC, South Tyneside Council and Sunderland City Council.

Under the scheme, British Gas will be offering a variety of services, including wall insulation, boiler replacements and double-glazed windows.

‘This is a great opportunity for residents in all eight participating council areas across the North East,' said project director, Martin Walker.

‘The partnership with British Gas that is now in place puts this region at the very forefront of domestic energy efficiency.

‘This scheme will help tens of thousands of households with their energy bills, help thousands of people struggling with fuel poverty, and create hundreds of jobs in the region.  We are very impressed by the commitment shown by British Gas, and now we can't wait to get started.'