A SCHEME to combat loan sharks imposing rip off rates on clients has won a national accolade.

Priorswood Community Centre, in north Taunton was highly commended in the England Illegal Money Lending Team (EIMLT) National Champions Awards 2016.

It was in recognition of its project involving several events to raise awareness of the dangers of borrowing cash from unscrupulous lenders.

The centre, run by North Taunton Partnership, has engaged the local community through free competitions for children, giving advisors the chance to speak to young people about how loan sharks operate.

And it reached out to adults by promoting the services of a local credit union as a legal and safe alternative to borrowing money.

Priorswood Community Centre also operates as a collection point for Moorvale Credit Union, with members saving over £800 since the project launched.

The community centre has continuously promoted the Stop Loan Sharks message through a series of warning posters across its information screens to signpost victims to the help and services available through the EIMLT.

Rebecca Vile, event co-ordinator for North Taunton Partnership, said: “It was great to be a part of this important project and to highlight the dangers of loan sharks to people in North Taunton.

"We are very pleased to receive a ‘highly commended’ award for the work we have done and we will continue to raise awareness of the risks of borrowing from loan sharks.”

For more information about membership and the services available from Moorvale Credit Union, visit Priorswood Community Centre on Eastwick Road on weekdays between 9.30am and 12.30pm or call 01823-353643 to speak to an advisor.

Tony Quigley, EIMLT head of service, said: “Well done to all our winners and ‘highly commended’ runners up in the National Champions Awards 2016 - you have all contributed to making a difference and tackling this crime in your community.

“Loan sharks are a scourge on society and cause harm and misery to their victims."

To report a loan shark, call the EIMLT confidentially on 0300-5552222, text 078600-22116, visit www.stoploansharks.co.uk, e-mail reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk or private message www.facebook.com/stoploansharksproject