Stephen Fry, who is backing this year's Surviving Winter appeal.

Stephen Fry today gave his support to an EDP-backed campaign to help Norfolk’s vulnerable old folks heat their homes this winter.

The Norfolk-based broadcaster told his 4.9m Twitter followers it was “a great idea”.

“The Surviving Winter appeal is a great idea and one I support wholeheartedly as any donations given reach those who need it quickly,” he added.

“Norfolk is beautiful but in winter it can be quite challenging, especially for those with limited resources to cope.

“Now the weather has turned colder and energy prices are rising this couldn’t be more timely.”

Last year’s appeal, run by Norfolk Community Foundation, raised £55,000 and helped 237 vulnerable households to stay warm.

But launching this year’s campaign at the weekend, the foundation warned it would have to raise even more money this year, as spiralling fuel bills saw more senior citizens struggling to heat their homes.

Many living in rural Norfolk do not have access to mains gas. That means they have to buy fuel oil, which distributors will only deliver in bulk.

Others struggle because their pensions have not kept up with rising costs and winter fuel payments have not been increased. Last winter, ministers cut the payments.