The number of 'Warm Spaces' available across the borough has risen to 28 as weather and health experts warn an Arctic blast means temperatures are set to plummet tomorrow – Wednesday.

Richmond Council, local community groups and churches are offering places for residents, including youngsters, worried about soaring energy bills to keep warm for a few hours.

At the same time, many will be offering hot drinks, support and simply a place for people to come together.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is encouraging people to stay warm and look out for those most at risk from the effects of cold weather.

The Met Office and UKHSA are warning that all regions of England will experience severe cold weather starting on the evening of Wednesday, December 7.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at UKHSA, said: "Cold weather can have serious consequences for health, and older people and those with heart or lung conditions can be particularly at risk.

"If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you should heat your home to a temperature that is comfortable for you. Try to heat the rooms you use most, such as the living and bedroom, to at least 18°C if you can, and keep your bedroom windows closed at night."

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Rebekah Sherwin, said: "Temperatures will start to dip this week, with daytime temperatures struggling to get above freezing in many places from mid-week onwards. However, the cold air from the Arctic will also bring brighter conditions, with some dry, sunny spells in many areas, particularly away from the coast."

UKHSA has supplemented the Cold Weather Plan for England – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cold-weather-plan-cwp-for-england

- with useful resources and advice on the risks of cold weather and Keep Warm Keep Well guidance - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/keep-warm-keep-well-leaflet-gives-advice-on-staying-healthy-in-cold-weather

It said that if people can't heat all the rooms they use, it's important to heat the living room during the day and the bedroom just before going to sleep.

It advised wearing several layers of thinner clothing will keep you warmer than one thicker layer. And having plenty of hot food and drinks is also effective for keeping warm.

Richmond Council said: "The cost of living crisis in the UK is resulting in unprecedented pressures on people already struggling, and this winter thousands of people in Richmond will be forced to make tough decisions.

"We want to do as much as possible to help our residents. Therefore, we are working with our local partners to provide access to a network of Warm Spaces, a group of places where Richmond residents can come together to stay warm."

Details can be found here -

* https://www.richmond.gov.uk/services/cost_of_living_hub/warm_spaces

* https://www.richmond.gov.uk/services/cost_of_living_hub/warm_spaces/warm_spaces_directory