A CREDIT union is about to expand to offer its services to hundreds of new customers in Darlington.

The Cockerton Churches Credit Union was set up ten years ago to offer low-cost loans and savings facilities to church members.

Now the union, which has more than 100 members, has decided to expand so that residents from the nearby Branksome estate can benefit from the scheme.

Loans from £100 up to £1,500 at interest of only one per cent per month are available to anyone paying a £1 joining fee and making regular savings.

Mary Wilkinson, a development worker with the credit union, said: "There are an awful lot more people who could benefit from the service that we provide to finance large and small expenses - school uniforms, Christmas, holidays and weddings. People who have credit problems also get a clean start - what counts is how they behave in the credit union."

Branksome residents are invited to the Neighbourhood House, Whitby Way, tomorrow, between 2pm and 4pm, where they will be entered into a free prize draw.

For details contact Mary Wilkinson on (07968) 225990.