10:06am Friday 18th July 2008
By Simon Bull
LET'S beat the credit crunch together. If we join forces we could all have a bit of extra money in our pockets.
A gloomy economic cloud is hovering over most of us, mainly thanks to living costs rocketing during the past year.
A slump in the housing market, tax increases and worries over job security - all these factors have added to the pressure and are causing a lot of us to tighten our belts.
Research shows three-quarters of parents are worried about the cost of keeping children entertained during the summer holidays, and even children's pocket money is being cut as families feel the pinch.
It seems things are going to get worse still, with talk this week of the UK facing possible recession in the coming months.
But, staying positive about it, what can we do to get through this tough economic period?
How can we save money on food, fuel, energy and other things?
Our new Beat the Crunch section is your chance to share cost-saving secrets with other people and to perhaps get some fresh ideas for yourself and your family.
Share your advice on trimming the weekly grocery bill, tell us where you have found the cheapest petrol and pass on your tips for keeping energy costs under control.
If you have discovered any other tricks for saving money, tell us about them and be a financial hero.
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