Homeowners in West Dorset hoping to make essential repairs to their homes are being offered help by the district council.

The council works in partnership with not-for-profit organisation Wessex Home Improvement Loans to provide subsidised loans to fund essential repairs, adaptations or improvements to homes across West Dorset.

Mr Paul Fletcher, 39, of Dorchester benefited from the scheme after buying his home and finding the repair needs were greater than expected. Mr Fletcher said: “I bought the house and it was worse than I thought. “It needed a new roof, the chimney repointing, re-wiring and plumbing work. It was quite dangerous and the roof was leaking. My friend’s mother saw the scheme advertised in a free magazine.

“Both the council officer and the adviser from Wessex Home Improvement Loans really helped me out. I don’t know what I would have done without the loan.”

Landlords, homeowners and those with empty homes may be eligible for assistance.

For further information call Wessex Home Improvement Loans on 01823 461099, visit wrcic.org.uk or email enquiries@wrcic.org.uk

Councillor Robert Gould, leader of West Dorset District Council, said: “We are happy to be able to provide homeowners and landlords with financial assistance through Wessex Home Improvement Loans.”