A FURIOUS family member has hit out after an elderly man was left without heating for more than two weeks.

Derek Smith, 81, of Seaview Avenue in Little Oakley was forced to boil the kettle when he needed hot water, put a blanket over his legs and use a portable heater to try and stay warm.

His sister Win Brazier said: “I am absolutely furious and it is disgusting."

Tendring Council’s member for housing Paul Honeywood said that the service that Mr Smith has received over this issue is not acceptable and does not meet the council’s normal standards for which he apologised.

The heating was eventually mended on December 10.