TRADING Standards teams in Bromley are appealing to shoppers not to overload themselves with debts over the festive period.

Officers regularly deal with large numbers of calls immediately after Christmas from people who have overspent and are struggling to pay back loans taken out to buy presents.

This year they are issuing early advice to anyone thinking of extra borrowing, including:

Work out the total cost of any loan

Shop around and check the annual percentage rates (APR)

Make sure you read and understand any agreement you sign

Check you can afford repayments.

Trading Standards Officer Samantha Phillips said: "Most people at some time will use credit to buy goods or services. Set yourself a budget and stick to it. Avoid getting into debt you are not prepared for."

Citizens Advice Bureaux can offer expert advice to people with debt problems and leaflets will be available from the Trading Standards mobile unit in Cotmandene Crescent car park, St Paul's Cray between 9.30am and 12.30pm every Friday.

November 13, 2001 12:37