// BBC BUSINESS NEWS — FINANZA
'I live in the dark': How rising bills are shaping daily life
Errol McGuiness says he has changed his daily routine to cope with higher household bills
As evenings grow colder and household budgets come under renewed pressure, 79-year-old grandad Errol McGuiness has developed a routine to keep costs down.
The pensioner collects rainwater, spends much of his time in a single room and piles on extra layers rather than turning up the heating.
"I keep lots of clothes on, but don't tell my daughter," he said.
His most striking money-saving measure comes when night falls.
"You don't need a light on to watch telly. You don't need a light on when you go to bed. You know the way to the toilet and the kitchen, so you don't need a light on."
Errol admits he has a health condition and says his daughter regularly reminds him to switch the heating on.
But he is far from alone in trying to cut household costs.
New figures published this week showed inflation rose to 3.5% in September, its highest level for almost a year, while higher fuel prices have pushed up living costs for many households.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has promised measures aimed at easing pressure on household finances, including removing standing charges from gas bills.