THE launch of the Ellesmere Port and Neston Credit Union has been a resounding success.

A total of 33 accounts were opened by customers at the two joining sessions held at Ellesmere Port Library and the Links Healthy Living Centre last week.

Credit Union boss Chris Barrowcliff said: 'This was an excellent start at a time of year when people are more focused on how they are going to find the money they need for Christmas rather than opening a new savings account.

'The fact that the opening went so smoothly is a credit to the abilities and dedication of the excellent group of volunteers that have been recruited.'

He added: 'Joining the credit union is an excellent way of saving even small amounts on a regular basis.

'Those who are over 18 and have saved regularly for at least three months become eligible to apply for a loan should they need one at very reasonable rates. For example, borrowing £100 and paying back £2.12 per week for one year would cost about £6.45 in interest.

'We would like to thank the Ellesmere Port and Neston libraries and Links Healthy Living Centre for letting us use their premises as collection points for these initial joining sessions and on a regular weekly basis from January 2004.' Further opportunities to join in November will be available at Neston Library on Friday from 10am-noon, Ellesmere Port Library next Monday from 5-6.30pm, and Neston Library on Saturday, November 29, from 10am-noon. For those who cannot make these sessions, the credit union will be opening weekly from the beginning of January in Ellesmere Port and Neston for people to join and operate their account.