THE South Wiltshire Credit Union (SWCU) has opened a new branch in Wilton in a joint venture with the local church.

The savings and loans bank, which has been supporting communities around Salisbury for the last ten years, seeks to bring ethical banking services to communities.

Revd Mark Wood, of Wilton Parish Church, said: “We are delighted to be able to work with SWCU to bring a real community bank to our town and hope those who come in to Wilton for the Thursday market will also make use of their services.

“For borrowers, the credit union offers a safe alternative to the high interest lenders that make so many people’s lives a misery. For savers it offers total security and an impressive rate of interest.

“If the Wilton branch is really going to take off we need a range of members and some new volunteers to keep the branch open for those who need it.

“I encourage Wiltonians to find out what’s on offer here.”

SWCU already has branches in Salisbury, Mere and Amesbury and is owned and run by the members, operating solely for the benefit of members with all profits returned to savers.

SWCU chairman Michael Ricketts said: “Community is at the heart of our organisation.

To be a member you have to save with us and in return this opens the door to low cost loans that are not available elsewhere.

“Those who are well off save with us because they know it helps others in the community, those who borrow know we will lend responsibly and not drive them into debt.”

The branch was officially opened last Thursday by Wilton mayor councillor Phil Matthews and is open from 10.30am to 11.30am on Thursday mornings. Visit wiltscommunitybank.co.uk for more details.