THE recent Budget has given a much-needed boost to hard-working families throughout Bury.

More than 2,950 families will benefit from the working families tax credit which guarantees a minimum income of £124 per week for full-time work. Along with the introduction of the national minimum wage, this means that families will see a real difference in their living standards.,

In addition, more than 27,000 families will benefit from the cut in the basic rate of income tax and the record increases in child benefit will see more than 14,500 families better off.

Pensioners will benefit form the minimum income guarantee, proposals to increase the winter fuel payment from £100 to £150, and free TV licences for over-75s from November.

VIC McCLUNG,

Labour candidate,

Tottington.