Wandsworth's trading standards team joined forces with the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to highlight the dangers of getting into debt as part of a national campaign.

The campaign Keep Debt Under Control was launched to coincide with National Consumer Week and focused on credit and debt.

Throughout the week, visitors to the council's trading standards office were able to get advice on how to avoid debt and how to get out of it if you already have a problem.

There are also free information leaflets, a budget planner and details of debt solving agencies at the trading standards offices in 78 Garratt Lane.

The campaign encouraged consumers to think carefully before signing credit agreements, compare different deals and their annual percentage rates before getting a loan or credit and to get good, impartial, advice if you are already in debt.

Cabinet member for the environment and public services Councillor Guy Senior said: "While obtaining credit is becoming increasingly easier for UK consumers, escaping debt problems is a much harder and more challenging prospect."

The council's chief trading standards officer Les Eames said: "By shopping around and taking time to think through the consequences of entering a credit agreement, you can help to avoid debt problems occurring in the first place. However, escaping the vicious cycle of debt can be daunting, which is why it is important to seek good, impartial advice at an early stage before you get too far into debt."

Information about the campaign can be found at the Citizens Advice Bureaux or by visiting the OFT website or by calling 0870 60 60 321.

Further information can be obtained from the council's trading standards team on 020 8871 7720.

November 23, 2001 10:30