Thornbury Radio station is aiming to help townsfolk save money on their electricity bills this winter.

With rising energy costs and plummeting temperatures, the team at the town’s community radio wanted to do something to help their listeners.

Just this week, the UK health security agency (UKHSA) has issued a cold weather alert for England - in place until Friday (December 16) - urging those with pre-existing medical conditions to heat their homes to at least 18C.

But for many, amid the soaring cost of living, this will not be possible.

Station co-director Glyn Roylance, a retired electrical engineer, decided to use his expertise to figure out how to cut unnecessary electricity costs, and then share what he had learned via the FM airwaves.

After an investigation into the usage in his own home, he managed to reduce his electricity consumption by up to 15 per cent, and save over £400 across the year.

He said: “We want to help our listeners reduce their bills and so this month we’ll be giving lots of tips on how to save money on your energy bills, plus exploding some myths that often get repeated in the media.”

One of the fascinating facts Glyn has uncovered is that replacing an old fashioned 100 watt filament bulb with a new LED bulb will pay for itself in only nine days.

“Check what sort of bulbs you are using,” said Glyn.

“If it’s an old-fashioned filament bulb, you should definitely consider replacing it, especially if it’s on for a long time like in the hall or landing. 

“If you had a single old-fashioned 100w light bulb that is on for six hours a day, then replaced it with a £2.50 10w LED light bulb, it would pay for itself in only nine days.”

Glyn also found that when his dishwasher was not being used and was on standby it was using 7w continuously. 

“That’s £21 a year for no useful purpose,” said Glyn. 

“We now turn it off until we want to use it.”

And Glyn has got some concerning news about back yard lights.

“You know those black PIR halogen security lights like you have in your back yard?” he said.

“Sometimes they get stuck permanently on. 

“Guess how much that will cost in electricity if you don’t fix it for a year?  Answer: £1489.20. 

“Yes, nearly £1,500 a year.”

To hear more of Thornbury Radio’s top tips on reducing winter electricity bills, checkout their Facebook site or tune in (105.1FM in and around Thornbury, and 107.5FM In Olveston, Tockington, Almondsbury and Severn Beach), or visit the station website at: www.thornbury.radio/electric