Millions are at risk of having their flue accessories damaged this winter, despite the mild temperatures witnessed in October and November, it has been claimed.

In total, 19.7 million Brits will be unprepared if severe weather arrives this season, with 40 per cent of homes set to be vulnerable to problems such as boiler breakdowns and frozen pipes, according to a study by Direct Line Home Insurance.

Stuart Curson, head of the group, said: "In addition to checking that your insurance covers the cost of emergencies, taking a few simple actions such as lagging pipes and keeping your home well maintained will go a long way to limiting the damage winter weather might cause."

Mr Curson's comments follow the Gas Safe Register's advice that elderly and vulnerable people should capitalise on free gas safety checks this winter.

The group has warned that every gas appliance in a household should be checked for safety annually.