The financial services regulator has expressed concern about mortgage commitments among the over 50s.

The Financial Services Authority (FSA) urged mortgage lenders to take a more 'robust' approach to applications from those nearing retirement.

There were an estimated 25,700 excess deaths in England and Wales in winter 2010/11, according to figures issued by the Office for National Statistics.

This 25,700 figure applies to the 3 month period December 2010 to February 2011, representing a rise in deaths of nearly a fifth when compared to the preceding August to November and the following April to July periods.

Behind this grim total, the majority of deaths that occurred were among the over-75s.

Following the recent fuel price hike from the Big Six energy companies, the Payments Council has teamed up with Esther Rantzen to help ease the additional pressures the cold season brings. They have produced a video and leaflet as part of the PayYOURway campaign to raise awareness around the different payment options which can help make life that little bit easier in winter.

In advance of the fuel price hike next week (10 November) from the last of the Big Six energy companies, research from the Payments Council shows that UK over-65s could save hundreds of pounds by taking advantage of money management measures that will help them prepare their finances for the winter – including simply changing the way they pay.