A COMMUNITY organisation offering savings and loans is celebrating a successful first year.

Wyvern Savings and Loans, which is run by volunteers. was formed at the end of September last year when the First Dorset Credit Union merged with Camelot Credit Union.

It offers its members a ‘safe and ethical place to save’ and offers affordable loans.

President Rosemary Britten said: “The last couple of years have meant a lot of focus for staff and volunteers, preparing to merge, and then settling into to new practices.

“But it’s been worthwhile and we will continue to open up opportunities for our members to see new products and services across all of Dorset and Somerset.”

Wyvern currently has 19 branches across Dorset and South Somerset, and seeks to provide a valuable service in helping members reach financial services which they might not otherwise be able to access.

Following the recent closure of Coastal Community Savings and Loans in the east of the county, Wyvern is looking to support members in that area and will waive any joining fee to people from Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch and east Dorset.

Mrs Britten said: “We’re looking for volunteers to help staff branches in Poole and Bournemouth, to try and fill the gap left by Coastal.

“And we’re keen to speak to anyone who might be able to offer a few hours a week.

“We continue to work hard to provide the best possible services to our members, providing affordable loans and safe savings. New members are always welcome.”

Wyvern Credit Union Ltd is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

It is covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, so the first £75,000 of a member’s savings are completely safe.

For more information visit wyvernsandl.co.uk, e-mail admin@wyvernsandl.co.uk or contact the office in Dorchester on 01305 268444.