North West Leicestershire District Council says it will this week begin paying out the £150 energy rebate to local residents who pay by direct debit.

The local authority says that 27,000 payments are being processed, a task which should be completed by the end of the month.

NWLDC issued an update for the public yesterday (Tuesday).

Ashby households should be receiving their payments soon.

The Council said: "Like all councils, we've had to complete pre-payment checks and install new software before making payments which has involved rigorous testing and extra pressure on staff resources.

"Here's what will happen:

"There will be instances where we have not been able to make a direct payment because, for example, the name on the direct debit does not match exactly with the liable person for Council Tax.

"If you have not received your payment direct into your account by the first week in June, or you do not pay by direct debit, it is safe to assume that your payment will be made through the Post Office.

"Letters will start to be sent within the next three weeks, but please be assured that nobody who qualifies for the rebate will be missed or forgotten.

"Our Customer Services team are currently being inundated with queries, so please look to our website or social media for updates in the first instance.

"For households who need help with their energy bills but are not eligible for the main energy rebate payment, details of the discretionary scheme will be published shortly.

"Further information can be found HERE."