A DEBT counselling service is warning shoppers against taking out credit to cover the cost of Christmas.

The warning comes from Mark Rumsby, manager of the Alton CAP Debt Centre, which is a collaboration between several churches in the town and award-winning national charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP).

Mr Rumsby said: “We want families to stop getting swept along by the Christmas adverts and think about what is really important. We all want to provide for our children but what they need most is our time – not massive presents.

“CAP recently undertook a national survey of 1,000-plus clients and, of those that responded from the south of England, one-fifth said the festive season had been a contributory factor in their debt crisis.”

He added that while low income is actually the main driver of debt in the UK, these figures highlight that if your finances are fragile, overspending at Christmas can tip people into a situation that very quickly goes from bad to worse.

Mr Rumsby said: “There are plenty of ways to have a great Christmas without going mad, you just have to get smart about it. Chat to your family and say things are a bit tight and they’ll be glad you’ve been honest.”

The Alton CAP Debt Centre team visits every client in their home, helping people in and around the Alton area. Meanwhile, CAP’s head office negotiate a reduction in each persons debts and set up a repayment plan, with local volunteers offering support to each person until they become debt free.

Mr Rumbsy said: “If you know your finances are already out of control and you’re getting bailiffs or threatening letters, call us before Christmas. A quick phone call and you’ll have set the wheels in motion. Every day we’re celebrating people going debt free and we want you to be one of those.”

Anyone wanting debt help can call 0800 328 0006 or visit capdebthelp.org.