Debt is something that everyone has at some point in their lives. Whether you owe money from loans, credit cards or store cards, debt is never fun to deal with.  Debt is often associated with negative feelings such as anxiety, worry, stress, frustration; it has a huge impact on our lives. Debt affects us in many ways: emotionally, mentally, physically, socially and spiritually. If you are dealing with debt, then you probably face these challenges. Many people struggle to pay off their debts because they don't know where to begin, which adds to the emotional turmoil. The key is to think about it logically and take it one step at a time.  Step 1: Set a BudgetSet a budget for how much you can realistically afford to allocate each month to pay off your debt and make a commitment to stick to it.  Step 2: PrioritiseMake a list of all your debts with the name of the creditor, total amount owed, minimum monthly payment and interest rate. Choose the debt with the highest interest rate and prioritise paying that one off. Then choose the next highest rate, then the next, and so on. You’ll get out of debt faster and faster as you move down the list. Step 3: Pay More Than the Minimum BalanceIf it’s feasible, always pay more than the minimum payment on any outstanding balance – even £10 or £20 a month can make a big difference. You’ll pay less interest, reduce the amount owed more quickly, and improve your credit rating. Step 4: Use Cash Rather than a Credit CardAlthough credit cards are a great convenience, they’re also an easy, and expensive, way to create debt. A good way to gain better control over your finances is to wean yourself off using credit cards to pay for everything. If you can, try to use more cash to pay for everyday or smaller items: it will leave you with more funds to channel into reducing your debt.  Step 5: Have a GoalPick a date when you plan to be completely debt-free. It’s easier to keep yourself motivated when you have a goal rather than believing that you’ll be paying off your debt forever. Think about how you’ll feel when that day comes and visualise how you will celebrate! What if you have no money to pay off your debt?If you don’t have any spare cash to help pay down your debt then all is not lost. There are still options such as debt management plans, individual voluntary arrangements, administration orders, debt relief orders and bankruptcy orders.  You’ll find free debt advice at moneyhelper.co.uk and citizensadvice.co.uk. If your debt is having a detrimental effect on you mentally, mind.org.uk has lots of practical tips on managing your money and improving your mental health. About the Author: Helen Say is a freelance copywriter and blogger www.cblservices.co.uk​

What Do Customers Want from Local Businesses? Customers trust and use local businesses, and even prefer them to national chains.​More than 80% of consumers use local businesses, not just out of necessity, but out of preference.  They like using local businesses because they...• Offer a more personalised service• Are trustworthy and treat customers fairly• Provide better customer service• Deliver quality work / products which they are passionate about• Are more reliable • Staff are professional and more knowledgeable about the products  As we head into a tough economic period, it is important to play to these strengths and keep the community coming back and supporting small independent business owners. What can small business improve on? Although local businesses are doing a lot of things right, there’s still room for improvement.Here’s what customers want to see more of from local businesses: • Online reviews:Consumers are turning to reviews and social media more often to find companies, and they expect to see reviews they can use to make buying decisions. • Simple-to-use websites:Do you have a website? Is it clear and simple to use? When was the last time you reviewed it...perhaps it is time to update it?   • Special offers for returning customers:Attract more repeat custom by rewarding your existing clients with specials, deals, and offers. It is far easier to generate more sales / visits from existing clients than to find new clients. • Self-service:Customer want to be able to book appointments, manage billing and make payments to local businesses online. Is this something you could offer / develop on your website? • More frequent online communications:Keep in touch with your customers - they like to get communications such as appointment reminders, advice and helpful tips, product updates, requests for feedback, newsletters etc.... It's a great way to add value, offer a better service than your competitors, and to keep your business at the forefront of your customers' minds too. So, whilst facing a tough 6-12 months ahead, there are many ways we can improve the service we offer, attract more customers and keep building our businesses...even in a recession.       

Step back in time to 1875 and find out about Worsley's annual May Queen Festival.

There is only ONE reason:
If people can’t see you then they’ll pick your competitor!

The first phase of RHS Greenway, a new traffic-free walking and cycling route is now open.

The most expensive model railway in the world!