With regard to the new pension Credit, may I tell you of my own experience when claiming this in early April?

I contacted the given number in Blackpool and the lady I spoke to told me to make myself comfortable because it would take 30 minutes to fill in the details.

She had difficulty with the computer and said I would receive the completed form within 14 days.

It was four weeks after that when I contacted them again and it seems they had computer problems on the day I sent my claim.

Once this was put right I received my claim form to return to Blackpool and I now have the necessary benefit book to receive the pension credit on October 6.

I found that all my dealings with Blackpool were carried out by whoever I spoke to with politeness and efficiency and I would say to anyone who is doubtful about claiming, to contact them and to do it now.

If you have any problems with the claim they will sort it out with you direct.

It is a good idea to do it now before the rush.

-CA White, Eastbourne