AS one of the people who called for the creation of the Spennymoor Credit Union in the first place I am increasingly frustrated with its lack of activity.

I am aware that due to the lack of resources it is unable to move to a more central location from the Youth and Community Centre and expand its opening hours from 90 minutes.

However, the credit union could be advertising its existence through posters and leaflets in community centres or the library etc.

People cannot use it if they do not know that it exists. Not everybody has access to the internet and Facebook.

The financial problems associated with the roll out of Universal Credit are putting more pressure on civil society organisations than ever such as an increasing demand for food vouchers and the services provided by the money advice services.

At a time of increasing debt and the effects of austerity, the credit union is now more vital than ever with its provision of affordable loans and savings.

Martin Jones, Spennymoor