CREWE Town Council has deposited £15,000 of its reserves with Cheshire Neighbours Credit Union so that it can be lent to town residents at reasonable rates of interest.

CNCU is a community owned and controlled financial co-operative.

It offers loans, savings accounts and other services similar to a bank. As an ethical and fair organisation, it lends to its members based on their ability to repay, and for many it offers significant advantages over payday lenders.

The more people who save with the credit union, the more it has available to lend, so the town council said it was delighted to put some of its reserves on deposit there.

“There are too many people in Crewe who have got into debt with unscrupulous lenders when there is a fairer alternative right on our doorstep," said Clr Kevin Hickson, leader of Crewe Town Council.

"We have confidence in the ability of the Credit Union to look after our money, and would encourage everyone to consider joining.

“This is just one of the ways that the town council can help local organisations for the benefit of the community. We would like residents to come forward with other suggestions and priorities to help us to develop our 'Vision for Crewe' Community Plan."

Cllr Simon Yates, chairman of the town council’s finance and resources committee, added: "Joining the credit union is a great way of putting aside a little money every week or every month to pay those unexpected bills, or to buy next year’s Christmas presents. And after you have been with them for 12 weeks, you can apply for loans if the going gets tough.”

The Cheshire Neighbours Credit Union has an office at Delamere House, Delamere Street, Crewe which is open Monday to Friday 10am until 12p,, and they can be contacted by telephone on 01270 685625 between 9.30am and 3.30pm.

Visit cncu.org.uk for more information.