Northumberland County Council has secured £12.4m in government funding for low-carbon energy upgrades to homes in the area.

The funding, part of the Government's Home Upgrade Grant Phase 2 (HUG2), will be allocated to properties not connected to mains gas and using alternative resources like oil, LPG, inefficient electric heaters or coal.

Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, said: "It’s fantastic to see that Northumberland has been awarded this important funding.

"We want to support all our residents to ensure that they have the most comfortable and affordable homes wherever possible.

“The county has lots of rural pockets which rely on fuel such as coal for heat.

"With the move away from fossil fuel towards greener energy it is imperative that we make sure no one is left behind and that everyone’s home is energy efficient and has the opportunity make the transition to a greener future.”

Lord Callanan, minister for Energy Efficiency and Green Finance, said: "This investment will help thousands of households to heat their homes for less, keep them warm for longer and could save hundreds on their annual energy bill."

The eligible upgrades may include loft, cavity wall, internal wall or underfloor insulation, air source heat pumps or solar panels.