A CREDIT union for people living or working in east Derwentside has been officially launched.

The East Derwentside Credit Union began with a public meeting in November 1998, but has just been invited to register with the Financial Services Authority, giving it legal status.

It offers members the chance to save and borrow money at low interest rates, provided they pay a £1 membership fee and hold shares of at least £1.

They must be over 18 to take out a loan, although anyone aged 16 can save, and under 16s can join as junior savers.

The group's registered office is in Station Road, Stanley, and there are collection points at Catchgate Communal Rooms, from 9.30am to 11.30am on Mondays, Dipton Community Rooms, from 1.30pm to 3.30pm on Mondays, and 19, Keir Hardie Avenue, South Stanley, from 9.15am to 10.45am on Tuesdays.

For more details, ring (01207) 234455.