As cold weather approaches hundreds of thousands of pensioners can anticipate a £200 payment from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) as part of the Winter Fuel Payment scheme.

This year, only the poorest pensioners will receive the cash.

Previously, all over 65s received a blanket payment, but the new Labour Government has altered the criteria.

The government argues that many wealthier pensioners do not require the payment and that aid should be targeted at those most in…