HARD up Dudley residents have been warned to steer clear of loan sharks in the lead up to Christmas.

People struggling for cash to cover the expense of the festive season can be tempted to turn to loan sharks for a small loan to tide them over.

But Dudley Council has urged struggling residents to think twice as it could end up costing them much more financially and having a huge impact on their lives.

Loan sharks can make the offer seem hard to resist, but very quickly the situation can spiral out of control and borrowers can be subjected to threats, violence and intimidation.

Councillor Gaye Partridge, cabinet member for community safety, said: “Loan sharks aren’t licensed to lend money legally, and they will often resort to the most extreme methods to enforce repayment.

“Our advice is that you should never go to a loan shark - they do not provide a community service, they are simply out to make money.

"If you suspect that there is one operating in your area please report it.”

The council has recommended credit unions as a safe, alternative lending and saving facility.

To find out about Castle and Crystal Credit Union in Dudley call 01384 815771 or visit www.castleandcrystal.co.uk.

Loan sharks can be reported confidentially by calling Illegal Money Lending England on 0300 555 22224 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.