Test Valley Borough Council is working on a project to protect people from loan sharks, who can make a killing at Christmas time.

The council has teamed up with England Illegal Money Lending Team (EIMLT) to crack down on loan sharks this Christmas.

The Stop Loan Sharks project helps residents celebrate the season without turning to illegal money lenders.

Loan sharks prey on those who are struggling financially in the run-up to Christmas. They rarely offer paperwork and are unclear on terms, meaning borrowers are left unsure how much money they will pay back.

As the debts cannot legally be enforced, lenders often resort to threats and extreme methods to enforce repayment.

Portfolio Holder for Communities and Leisure, Tony Ward, said: “These criminals usually appear friendly at first. They are often introduced to a lender via their local community but they quickly trap their borrowers into spiralling debt. What might seem like a small loan to tide people over for Christmas could end up costing residents more than just money, well into the New Year and beyond.”

Residents who are worried can speak to a trained investigator throughout the festive season by calling 0300 555 2222 in confidence.Information is also available at facebook.com/ stoploansharksproject.