THE Newton Aycliffe branch of a national charity which helps families in debt has been named the best in the country for two months in a row.

Each month, managers at the Bradford headquarters of Christians Against Poverty (CAP) assess each centre and rank them based on a number of criteria.

The Newton Aycliffe centre has performed consistently well all year and has come top in the last two months. The CAP centre in Newton Aycliffe has been open for eight months, helping local families who find themselves in debt for whatever reason.

A spokesman for the centre said: "In that time numerous families have been helped and there have been some real changes in people's lives.

"Many clients are now living to sustainable budgets and at the same time are paying off their debts.

"For others, much as they would wish to, they simply can't afford to pay off their debt, which can lead case workers to recommend insolvency or bankruptcy."

CAP provides free and confidential advice and support to anyone in need of help, regardless of race, gender or belief.

Anyone wanting help and would like to arrange a confidential home visit can contact the centre on (01325) 316420.