A CREDIT Union, which recently opened up to business, has confirmed The Lewes Pound as its first member.

Not-for-profit savings and loans co-operative East Sussex Credit Union offers ethical options to socially-conscious firms.

Richard Priestman, president at East Sussex Credit Union, said: "We are thrilled to welcome The Lewes Pound as our very first business member.

“This is great news for us and a real endorsement for the credit union and the security we offer to individuals and businesses that deposit money with us."

Investments placed on deposit with the credit union attract an annual dividend, are secure and can be accessed easily.

Loans of up to £15,000 are also now available at competitive rates of interest, with individual loan transactions developed to suit particular needs and with no arrangement or exit fees.