All this snow is lovely to look at but it is difficult to get around. The side roads are like glaciers and the pavements ice rinks. If you’re pregnant, or getting on a bit, or just a bit wobbly on your feet it’s really quite scarey.

In some ways it’s a pity that this heavy snow didn’t arrive here a week or so earlier and then we could all have relaxed and enjoyed a white Christmas. Coming hard on the end of the holidays it’s a bit frustrating when we are all so keen to get back to school or work! No? I’ve had loads of meetings postponed this week but there’s not much we can do about it so we might as well relax and enjoy it, if we can. But, what if you are elderly or find it hard to get about? They say the snow and bad weather brings out good neighbours so let’s hope we can look out for each other.

If you are having problems with your heating and really need to get a new boiler fitted but perhaps the budget doesn’t stretch far enough just now I’ve heard about a great Government scheme that’s been launched this week – a boiler scrappage scheme which offers £400 off the price of a new boiler! You might even be able to get one for free, depending on your circumstances.

Apparently, households in England with working boilers on the lowest “G” rating can apply to the Energy Saving Trust (EST) for vouchers to use towards a new “A” rated boiler or renewable heating system, such as a biomass boiler or heat pump.

And, Watford residents on a wide range of benefits may be entitled to a FREE replacement boiler, through Herts and Essex Energy Partnership (HEEP).  Watford Council are supporting this scheme so if you or somebody you know is on certain benefits (including some residents on Child and Working Tax Credits) with a boiler over 20 years old  that is “G” rated, then call the Herts and Essex Energy Partnership on tel: 0800 980 6026  or follow the link above. According to the Mayor, Dorothy Thornhill, the council has been offering discounted insulation schemes since February 2008 and she says “So far we have helped over 1300 people across the town.”

If you are interested in the schemes being run currently by the council you can get more information or arrange a free no obligation survey by calling 0800 980 6026. There are a range of schemes available to all residents including a £99 loft and cavity wall insulation offer, amongst other great offers and opportunities to help keep the cold out this winter.

Here at thebestofwatford we are always on the look out for businesses that do a really first class job. I’ve recently enjoyed great service from Progas and can highly recommend them. So if you are looking for reliable domestic heating and gas engineers give Robbie a ring on 01923 679777 or if you can recommend a company please let me know by logging on to thebestofwatford .

Best wishes to all our readers for 2010. We hope you keep warm and keep healthy!

Pictured below MayorThornhill with local resident Lesley Atkins