A CREDIT union in Worcester is offering a free Christmas supermarket trolley dash to celebrate the opening of its new shop.

Anyone can enter the free draw for the dash at the Co-op Superstore, in Ombersley Road, by calling into the Worcester Blackpear's newly-refurbished shop at 9 Lowesmoor.

City councillor Paul Denham, who is chairman of the union, said, at this time of the year, many people may be tempted to borrow money from door-to-door moneylenders in order to pay for presents.

"Door-to-door companies pay commission to their collectors to persuade people to borrow money.

"The customers pay that commission in' rip-off' charges.

"Worcester Blackpear is able to charge much less because it is owned by its members and run by local volunteers.

"We are here to help people to save regularly and borrow sensibly. We help people to avoid borrowing beyond their means."

Closing date for entry is Saturday, December 6, with the dash taking place on Sunday, December 14 after the store has closed.