DUDLEY borough residents could each be missing out on up to £2,600 a year in unclaimed housing or council tax benefit.

To combat the problem, Dudley Council's Benefits Shop is launching the year-long Your Rights Campaign in partnership with Age Concern Dudley and the Pension Local Service.

The council is particularly keen to encourage pensioners to find out if they are eligible for a rebate on their council tax and rent, as over 26,000 may not be claiming benefits in Dudley alone.

Dudley Council's Mike Williams said: "We want to ensure that wherever possible people get the money they are entitled to - it is a right not a privilege.

"In some situations, savings of £16,000 and above will mean there is no entitlement to housing and council tax benefit, but people aged 65 or over may still be able to claim. If in doubt, get advice."

For information call Age Concern's information and advice service on 01384 359736.