Heating oil users are being urged to stock up early before winter sets in, as part of this year's Buy Oil Early campaign.

Launched by ACRE, Citizens Advice and FPS (Federation of Petroleum Suppliers), the campaign highlights that early orders can benefit from lower prices and prompt delivery of fuel.

Energy Minister Michael Fallon, who is backing the Buy Oil Early campaign, said: “The message is simple: stock up on heating oil before the winter leaves you out in the cold. Previous severe winters show it’s better to order early when suppliers have spare delivery capacity.

“Delaying risks longer delivery times especially if cold weather increases demand and disrupts deliveries, particularly in remote and rural parts of the country. Consumers may also want to consider establishing or joining a community buying group.

In the previous prolonged severe winter weather many of the oil distribution companies had an increase in orders and backlogs in delivering oil particularly where roads where disrupted by snow and ice.

Further information on the campaign and advice about buying early and hints and tips for saving energy and money, as well as a handy tool to find your nearest oil distributor can be found at the FPS consumer website.