A Ministry of Work and Pensions spokeswoman this week apologised to thousands of over 60-year-olds in Essex who have still not received their £200 winter fuel allowances.
Many received the cash from as early as October last year but the latest annual allowance has seen them still hanging on into the New Year.
One of those, from Braintree who lives alone said: "The money is really helpful to me but I'm still waiting. I read in the Chronicle that there had been a reorganisation in the Ministry of Work and Pensions but surely that shouldn't cause this long delay.
"I feel like a bit of a scrounger complaining but people over 60 are due their allowance and we haven't got it."
The ministry spokeswoman said: "I would like to apologise on behalf of the ministry. The situation will be rectified.
"There is the free helpline number that people can ring, 08459 151515. If anyone is worried and is still waiting for payment will they please ring."
Well over 150,000 men and women over 60 in Essex are eligible for payment.
Published Thursday, January 2, 2003
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