MONEYLINE, the community finance organisation, has refurbished its busy Bolton Road branch in Bury in time for Christmas.

The ‘not for profit’ organisation offers local people loans, access to savings accounts as well as referrals to local partners for financial advice and practical help.

Tina Scully, Moneyline loan adviser, said: “We try to help the people of Bury stay away from higher cost credit, and Christmas is traditionally the time when family finances are stretched to the limit.

“Our newly refurbished branch is more spacious, and allows us see more customers. We offer small loans over short periods that are fair to our customers, and it is very popular during this busy period.”

Moneyline has been in Bury for eight years and has seen a growing demand for credit alternatives for people who cannot access mainstream credit.

“We fully understand the problems and challenges facing our customers," added Tina. "As a responsible lender, our aim is get people back on their feet and in control of their finances - whatever their circumstances. That’s why we encourage our customers to take out saving accounts, something many of our customers have never done before, and they are frequently surprised by the money they can quickly accumulate."

Moneyline work very closely with community groups, social housing organisations and local councils. Their work has been recognised with various awards.