THE future of a local heating oil buying group could be under threat.

More than 250 residents have for some years enjoyed the ability to buy heating oil at a bulk-buying discount of typically 18 per cent by being members of the Llechryd Heating Oil Group, one of the most successful such groups in the country.

Originally set up by the late Ruth Ward and for the last four-and-a-half years coordinated by Ken MacLoughlin, it has gone from strength-to-strength and has already saved its members more than £8,000 this year.

Unfortunately, Ken has been forced by ill-health to resign as the co-ordinator with immediate effect and so the search is on for his successor.

Due to the increased size of the membership - which covers a wide area of south Ceredigion and northern Pembrokeshire - it has been suggested that a small committee should take over and share the responsibilities.

Any members willing to offer their time are asked to send an email to llechrydheatingoilgroup@gmail.com so that an initial meeting can be arranged to organize the next order and ensure the continuation of this valuable community resource.