GAZETTE & HERALD: PLANS to open a credit union in Chippenham have been welcomed by the town council. Credit unions allow people to save together and borrow at a low interest.

The interest from the savings pays the expenses and any surplus is paid back to members as a dividend.

Sarah Perkins, from Community First, a charity that works with credit unions, said: "In the days where people are getting more and more in debt, credit unions help to establish a pattern of savings, to budget wisely and to borrow responsibly.

"Chippenham should have had a credit union a very long time ago with the large number of people that live in the town.

"Some people have already joined one in Corsham."

She said it would cost a credit union member just £6.50 in interest to borrow £100 over a year.

Wootton Bassett, Corsham and Calne already have credit unions, with one being set up in Malmesbury.

Chippenham needs to find a public venue where the weekly credit union can be held such as a community centre, library or church.

Chippenham mayor John Scragg said: "Anything that keeps people out of the hands of debtors is very welcome here."

Anyone who can help in finding a venue should contact Sarah Perkins on (01380) 722475.