A SCHEME that allows Durham residents to save and take out low-interest loans is looking to expand.

The Durham City and District Credit Union, open to anyone living or working in the area, was launched last year.

It now has 140 members, assets of £24,000 and is lending £900 to members.

It has five collection points and plans to open more, but needs volunteers to help with the expansion.

Chairwoman Wendy Bradshaw said: "A credit union is a co-operatively run savings and loans organisation -a community-based bank -which is owned, controlled and run by its members.

"Unlike a bank, a credit union can make small loans and, unlike some loan companies, these are offered at a very low rate of interest.''

People can make savings deposits and arrange loans at the five collection points, and payroll deductions can be arranged.

Further collection points are expected to open in the city council's new office in Claypath, on the Newton Hall estate, in Framwellgate Moor, and on the Sherburn Road Estate.

Collection points could also be set up at Brandon, Esh Winning, New Brancepeth, Coxhoe, Kelloe, West Rainton, Sherburn Hill and Ludworth.

To join, call the organisers on 0191-386 0357.