Homeowners can reduce the cost of their utilities bills by doing some research, one expert has recommended.

Jason Riddle, co-founder of Save Our Savers, emphasised that there are money saving offers to be found, providing people know where to look.

He continued: "Reducing your utility bill can be a particular challenge because so few of the offers are directly comparable.

"Don't just take the word of someone who comes knocking on your door."

Using price comparison sites is a great way to see what is out there, but the expert advised using more than one to get the most accurate overview of the market.

Consumers have been hit with a number of utility price rises over recent months, including the announcement that Scottish and Southern Energy is increasing the cost of gas and electricity.

The move was criticised by a number of groups, including Citizens Advice, which said that it comes at a time when people are struggling to meet day-to-day costs.