Glenravel Oil scheme used an example to other communities

The bulk buying oil club as already seen in excess of 150 local people signing up to make savings on their home-heating oil purchases.

And now Ballymena Council has produced a toolkit to offer practical advice on issues to consider when setting up and running a community bulk buying oil club.

Town Clerk Anne Donaghy told Ballymena councillors last week that the toolkit has been produced by the council on behalf of the Causeway Coast and Glens, and Mid and East Antrim council cluster areas.

“It basically explains how to run a scheme,” Ms Donaghy said.

She added: “Our staff have done an amazing job [preparing the toolkit].

“This is a chance for us to demonstrate how we can move things forward.”

Councillor Paul Maguire said he concurred with Ms Donaghy’s comments, adding he commended those behind the Glenravel scheme.

“Glenravel Oil Club now has in excess of 150 members and we’ve seen average savings of £30, Cllr. Maguire added.