MEMBERS of the first credit union to be set up in Darwen celebrated success in 2001 with an appeal for new members to swell their ranks in 2002.

The borough's branch of the Credit Union reported a healthy membership base and said they were going "from strength to strength".

The union is open to any residents in Darwen with Blackburn South ward, as well as those who work in the area between Bolton Road, Roman Road and the M65 motorway link.

The Darwen office, based at 2, The Circus, in the centre of the town is open Monday and Wednesday mornings as well as all day Friday.

It also operates from Sudellside Community Centre in Sudellside Street every Thursday evening from 6 until 8. For full details, call 01254 776611.

There is also a Blackburn South Credit Union branch operating every Thursday between 10am and noon at 51, Newfield Drive.

It also operates on Wednesday evenings at Ivy Street Community Centre. For full details, call 01254 689210 or e mail www.bscu.co.uk