ELDERLY tenants who have difficulty lighting their boilers because of their awkward position may have to wait five years before the council replaces them.

Residents of sheltered accommodation in Retreat Street, Astwood Bank collected a petition calling for Redditch Council to move the boilers.

The council has acknowledged the problem but said a gas response contractor can re-light the boiler within four hours if needed.

A report for councillors said no cash was available to change the boilers. It is recommended that the work be carried out in five years time.