MONEY advisers are urging Blackburn with Darwen residents not to let the credit crunch make Christmas and the New Year miserable.

Huge consumer debt and rising prices for food, fuel and household bills are already putting pressure on many residents across the borough.

But Coun John Slater, executive member for neighbourhood and cust-omer services, said help was available.

He said: “There are huge extra financial pressures on people at Christmas time and, by encouraging people to plan ahead, we hope to ease some of those pressures.

“People want to make Christmas special for their family, friends and visitors with presents and nice food but it all has to be paid for and the regular bills still have to be met.

“That’s why we’re offering help now so people aren’t paying for this Christmas well into the New Year.”

You can get free help and advice from Blackburn with Darwen Council’s advice service on (01254) 583350 or email advice@blackburn.gov.uk