Plans for a credit union in Southend to keep hard-up borrowers out of the hands of loan sharks have been given a massive boost.

The Southend Association of Voluntary Services has been awarded more than £311,000 to set up the "people's bank".

It is hoped that the union, which will lend money to those in desperate need, will stop people using unlicensed lenders who prey on those unable to get credit through banks.

Published Wednesday, May 21, 2003

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