A NEW high-street lender has opened in Burnley – promising affordable loans for low earners worried about Christmas.

Pennine Community Credit Union’s new Burnley branch is based in St James’s Street and has been backed by local MP Julie Cooper.

Burnley mayor Cllr Charlie Briggs, who opened the branch, said: “I am happy to see PCCU on Burnley’s high street, it is good for the town and its people to be able to access much needed services.”

The new branch has been totally renovated to include a private interview room and cashier desks for account holders to deposit and withdraw.

Julie Cooper MP spoke about the importance of PCCU being situated on the high street amongst the banks, well-known stores and coffees shop

She said: “At a time when local people are experiencing low wages or worrying about the expensive Christmas period it is good know the credit union are here to help.”

Mrs Cooper was excited to hear that PCCU had also launched a new website called PCCU Own Comforts, in partnership with local social enterprise SPE Furnishings, to coincide with the branch opening.

The website stocks a wide range of furniture and electricals such as washing machines, TVs and computer consoles.

She added: “I am delighted to support Pennine Credit Union. It is great to know that PCCU Own Comforts will be offering an ethical alternative to the pay weekly stores, which charge local residents high levels of interest.”