A TRAILBLAZING savings and loans group has scored another first - in its own write! For thriving Nelson Community Credit Union has launched its own newspaper - the first regular credit union journal in the region.

'Communique' will go out free to the union's 800-plus members twice a year initially, keeping them in touch with developments and improving communication in the 'family' of members. "Hopefully it will develop into a quarterly publication," says Nelson President, Mr Lou Gildea. It is an idea which has been on the back burner for a number of years and we are delighted we are now in the position to launch it."

The key to the go-ahead was the availability of Credit Union stalwart Gerry Mulholland, a long-serving Lancashire Evening Telegraph journalist who retired last year.

"He agreed to become Credit Union Communique's editor and we were on our way," said Mr Gildea.

The credit union, which encourages thrift and fellowship among members via regular savings and low interest loans, was the first to be launched in East Lancashire, nearly 15 years ago.

It was the first to use computerised accounting systems and the first to open a branch office and to pass the £1 million mark in loans to members.

Said Mr Gildea: "The journal will give information and advice on all aspects of credit union activity and keep members abreast of expansion plans."

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