A credit union that provides vital financial help to people avoid loan sharks urgently needs to find new offices.

The lease on East Brighton Credit Union's office in Edward Street offices runs out in five weeks' time.

Project manager Martin Groombridge said there would be no collection point for people using the service after the lease expires on March 10.

The credit union, which has more than 230 members, provides a savings, money advice and low interest loans service for people on low incomes.

Mr Groombridge said: "Many of the people we serve would be vulnerable to loan sharks if we are forced to close this collection point and office.

"The credit union is a real godsend to people who would not otherwise have access to the savings and loans service we provide."

He said he hoped landlords in the city who owned spare office space would make some available to the credit union.