Rainhill: Money put behind Rocket pub after winter fuel cuts

Following the government's decision to cut winter fuel payments to all but the poorest pensioners this year, the move has proved immensely controversial and caused backlash across the country.

Only those in receipt of pension credit are eligible for winter fuel support, and St Helens North MP David Baines, who voted for the winter fuel cuts, explained that the "extremely difficult choice" was made to fill a "previously unknown £22bn black hole in the country's finances".

However, as many people remain concerned, a number of residents and business owners have come together with a plan to help struggling pensioners in our borough.

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The Warrington Road pub will provide the warm hubs every Monday from September 23 (Image: St Helens Star) From Monday, September 23, and every Monday throughout the autumn and winter months, The Rocket pub in Rainhill will be offering a warm space for pensioners who are concerned about their heating bills.

There will also be free tea, coffee, biscuits, cakes, and light refreshments on offer for pensioners, with local residents including Gary Crickson and Lisa Crickson of Forge Fitness gym, as well as Paula Walsh, Nicola Davies, and staff at the Rocket putting money behind the bar to support the project.

There is space for up to 30 pensioners to make use of the weekly project, which is hoped to support residents and bring the community closer together.

Gary Crickson, who is well known for organising various charitable events at his gym, said: "If my nan, god rest her soul, ever found out that I was in a position to help the pensioners out and I didn't, she'd kill me."

Further warm hubs across the borough can be found here, which can be visited by people who are worried about their bills this winter.

You can find out if you are eligible for pension credit by visiting the government website here or by calling the Pension Credit claim line at 0800 99 1234.