A CREDIT union based in Okehampton with 114 volunteers across Devon received a visit from the MP for Central Devon recently to learn more about the co-operative.

The goal of the credit union is to offer a broad range of financial products, particularly to those who might struggle to obtain loans elsewhere.

Plough and Share manager Paula Anscomb said: 'We believe everyone has a right to savings accounts and financial assistance and will consider members' requests for loans on an individual basis, not by viewing them as simply a record on a computer. Our credit union is run solely to benefit its members.'

Mr Stride said: 'There is a real concern among many MPs, including myself, about payday loans offered by payday lending companies, often to people in very desperate circumstances who see them as a good option but end up paying back their loans at colossal rates like 2500% APR. Credit unions such as Plough and Share are a far better option.'