A Glasgow resident facing an 'astronomical' £2000 bill for gas he wasn't using has been given a refund.

Despite not using any gas, the man was presented with the bill by the energy firm Utlilta.

They told him he would have to pay the money or face some of his money being taken out of a prepayment meter.

After contacting his local MP Alison Thewliss, the resident was able to have the bills removed and Utilita sent him a refund of £51.41.

The firm also apologised to the constituent. 

He said: “The past few months have been really difficult for me due to the constant worry of being faced with the prospect of having to pay these astronomical bills.

“With the help of Alison Thewliss, I am so happy to have not only have these bills corrected, but also to have received the payment of £51.41 which I was due.

“I am thankful for all the help that was given to me during this difficult time and appreciate all the support I had received from Alison and the team.

“If anyone else finds themselves in a similar position to mine, I’d urge them to contact Alison’s office. Her team were great and really supported me throughout what was a worrying time for me.”

Alison Thewliss MP said: “I was delighted to hear that my constituent’s issues had been resolved with Utilita.

"This would no doubt have been a distressing time for the constituent, and I’m so glad they were able to have these bills corrected and receive the money they were owed.

“My team were able to contact Utilita and were in regular dialogue to ensure that the length of time the constituent had been waiting to have these astronomical bills corrected would be kept to a minimum.

“I am grateful to the constituent for their patience during this time and appreciate the efforts of Utilita to ensure this case was actioned as soon as possible."

Any Glasgow Central constituents who are in need of support can contact Ms Thewliss via email at alison.thewliss.mp@parliament.uk, or by calling 0141 552 7117.