A HOLLINS-based firm of chartered accountants is urging local people not to miss out on a gift from the taxman.

From April 6, the new "Children's Tax Credit" comes into being and the Inland Revenue estimates five million people will qualify for it.

Alan McCann, director of taxation at DTE (Downnam Train Epstein) tax consulting services, said: "People who think they qualify for the new tax credit should contact their local tax offices without delay.

"Failure to claim could cost a qualifying family up to £442 per annum."