News archive

The Money Shop Raises Funds for Starlight Children's Foundation

18th November 2010

The Money Shop has raised vital funds for Starlight Childrens Foundation, a national charity that brings much-needed fun, laughter and distraction to seriously ill children and their families. The UKs leading instant cash provider presented the charity with a cheque for money raised further to nationwide fundraising efforts across its network of 350 stores.

Neil Swan, Chief Executive from Starlight Childrens Foundation, met with Silvio Piccini, Managing Director, UK, for The Money Shop at The Money Shops Nottingham store located on Friar Lane, where he was presented with a cheque for 42,833.

Neil Swan, Chief Executive, Starlight Childrens Foundation, comments: Wed like to thank The Money Shop for their generous donation. The money raised will help us bring even more rewarding experiences to children suffering from life limiting illnesses. From once in a lifetime holidays to meeting with their celebrity idols or swimming with dolphins, the work we do helps to bring joy to the lives of sick children and their parents.

Silvio Piccini, Managing Director, UK, The Money Shop, adds: We are always keen to support the communities in which we operate and we are delighted to have been able to help such a worthy cause. Wed like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who donated so generously.

Starlight grants once-in-a-lifetime wishes for seriously and terminally ill children, restoring the magic and fun of childhood and giving the whole family happy memories to share, whatever the future holds.

The charity also creates entertainment in every hospital and hospice throughout the UK. Sick children go to Starlight parties, laugh their way through pantomimes, go out on Starlight Escapes, play games and watch films on the Starlight Fun Centre, and enjoy the toys and puzzles of the Starlight Distraction Box. Happy children respond better to treatment and Starlight helps children to forget about their illness and simply have a bit of fun.

The very first Money Shop opened its first store in Nottingham in 1996 and now employs over 1,500 people across its network, serving over 450,000 customers a year often in communities which have been vacated by traditional banks and post offices. The Money Shop now has five stores in the Nottingham area.

MP finds out what's in store at the Money Shop

15th November 2010

Robert Buckland, Conservative MP for South Swindon, paid a visit to the Swindon branch of The Money Shop, the UKs number one instant cash provider last week, to find out more about the range of financial solutions available on the high street.

The Money Shop, which has a store in Commercial Road, recently became a member of National Pawnbroking Association (NPA), forming the largest network of pawnbroking stores in the UK, is inviting MPs to its stores as part of a scheme to educate Parliamentarians about the history of the business and the products they offer.

A successful pawnbroking service has been available at The Money Shop amongst its list of services for several years. The full range of Money Shop consumer financial products and services include payday loans, foreign exchange, pawnbroking, Gold to Cash, cheque cashing, Western Union money transfer products and other ancillary products and services.

Mr Buckland was shown around The Money Shop premises, and met with the Head of UK Compliance, Caroline Walton, and Store Manager Keeley Pearce. They discussed the impact of the recession on consumers and their business and its effect on the services they offer.

Mr Buckland, Conservative MP for South Swindon, commented: I was impressed with the friendliness, professionalism and customer care of the staff I met during my visit to the Money Shop and its quite clear that the Money Shop offers a competitive service in a market that can be a mine field for customers.

Ms Walton added: Managing finances is important at any time, but the current economic downturn is encouraging more of us to look for alternative financial solutions. The Money Shop can provide viable alternatives to those who might find it difficult to secure credit from the banks and it is good to see MPs such as Mr Buckland recognising this.

The Money Shop opened its first store in Nottingham in 1996 and now employs over 1500 people across its network, serving over 400,000 customers a year often in communities which have been vacated by traditional banks and post offices.

MP finds out what's in store at the Money Shop

15th November 2010

Damian Collins, Conservative MP for Folkestone, has paid a visit to the Folkestone branch of The Money Shop, the UKs number one instant cash provider, to find out more about the range of financial solutions available on the high street.

The Money Shop, which has a store in Guildhall Street, recently became a member of National Pawnbroking Association (NPA), forming the largest network of pawnbroking stores in the UK, is inviting MPs to its stores as part of a scheme to educate Parliamentarians about the history of the business and the products they offer.

A successful pawnbroking service has been available at The Money Shop amongst its list of services for several years. The full range of Money Shop consumer financial products and services include payday loans, foreign exchange, pawnbroking, Gold to Cash, cheque cashing, Western Union money transfer products and other ancillary products and services.

Mr Collins was shown around The Money Shop premises, and met with the Head of UK Compliance, Caroline Walton, and Store Manager Rebecca Edwards. They discussed the impact of the recession on consumers and their business and its effect on the services they offer.

Mr Collins, commented: I was particularly impressed with the knowledge and professionalism of the staff I met during my visit to The Money Shop. It was interesting to learn about the organisation at such an important time in the economy of the UK, and the services they are providing to people in Folkestone.

Ms Walton added: Managing finances is important at any time, but the current economic downturn is encouraging more of us to look for alternative financial solutions. The Money Shop can provide viable alternatives to those who might find it difficult to secure credit from the banks and it is good to see MPs such as Mr Collins recognising this.

The Money Shop opened its first store in Nottingham in 1996 and now employs over 1500 people across its network, serving over 450,000 customers a year often in communities which have been vacated by traditional banks and post offices.

CFA welcomes clarity on overdraft fees

12th November 2010

Moves by banks to introduce flat rate fees for overdrafts have been welcomed by the Consumer Finance Association (CFA), which represents the larger online and high street providers of short term loans.

"This is a helpful move which offers consumers the chance to compare the costs of various short term loan products on a like for like basis," said John Lamidey, chief executive of the CFA.

"Banks have long been criticised for complex charges for both arranged and unarranged overdrafts. There can be a range of fees and interest that make it difficult to calculate in advance just what going into the red on your current account would cost."

Now some banks are opting for simple flat rate fees to combat the complexities. Halifax bank charges 1 a day for an arranged overdraft and 5 a day if customers go overdrawn without prior agreement. From 1st February 2011 part publicly owned Royal Bank of Scotland charges a flat 6 a day fee for those who use an unarranged overdraft. They are also launching a text and email alert service customers can sign up for, to tell them if they are about to slip into, or are already using, an unarranged overdraft.

Santander are the latest big bank to adopt this process. From 16th March 2011 customers with a Zero account - reserved for those with a Santander mortgage, investments with the bank or 10,000 of savings - will pay no fees for arranged or unarranged overdrafts and an overdraft interest rate of just 12.9 pc. Those with 'preferential accounts' - for people who pay in more than 1,000 per month or whose account has a monthly fee - will be charged 50p per day for arranged overdrafts and 5 per day for unarranged overdrafts, capped at ten days per month. For those with 'standard accounts' arranged overdrafts will cost 50p per day and unarranged ones will be charged at 5 per day, but this is capped at 20 days per month. Customers using unarranged overdrafts will also be hit with a 25 fee for every payment that is either allowed or bounced.

The move to flat fees allows customers to compare the costs of an unarranged overdraft with other short term loan products such as payday loans, available on the high street or online. These loans have been criticised for their high APRs (banks do not have to show an APR on overdrafts) but their actual charges are very competitive with the new bank flat rates. Ipsos MORI research in 2009 indicates that 4 million people use unarranged overdrafts.

Explained John Lamidey: "Customers can pay between 10 and 30 in charges for every 100 borrowed (say for 30 days) from reputable short term lenders. Flat rate charges for an unarranged overdraft for the same period could be 150 to 180. So if you are likely to spend a little bit more than you have in your current account, it pays to shop around for the best deal if you want to borrow the extra.

"Remember though that unarranged overdrafts and payday loans are only designed for customers to borrow a few hundred pounds over a few weeks and then pay off the debt. They enable borrowers to meet an urgent need or take an unmissable opportunity but you must be able to cover the cost of the loan in full quite quickly to benefit from these products."

Payday loans provider Payday Express ups the tempo in the fight against identity fraud with appointment of online fraud manager

10th November 2010

Online cash advance loans provider Payday Express has recently stepped up efforts to combat online fraud and identity theft by bolstering current fraud prevention procedures with the appointment of Daniel Ibrahim as its online fraud manager.

As one of the leading online payday loans providers in the UK, Payday Express moved away from the traditional paper-based loan application process in favour of a modern and more efficient online application process that borrowers can complete in the comfort of their own homes and at a time that suits them.

As with many online financial transactions this can leave both the lender and borrower open to internet-based fraud such as identity theft. However, by having implemented various online security processes, Payday Express has been able to mitigate these risks while continuing to provide a quick and high quality service to the customer.

In order to keep ahead of the fraud prevention game Payday Express has brought in Daniel who, speaking about his recent appointment, said: I feel privileged to work for Payday Express, a company that has already made use of a number of highly developed fraud prevention and verification tools. The aim now is for us to ensure these tools are utilised to their absolute optimum.

The difficulty that faces online businesses today is to ensure that genuine customers are provided with a fast service, whilst tightening the processes to deter fraudsters. This balance can be a challenge, but it is my priority to ensure that all applicants details are carefully verified.

I take pride in protecting the business against fraud, and in assisting the victims and the authorities with any fraud investigations. We always take action against fraudsters and will involve the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA), the UK fraud prevention service, CIFAS, and also report cases to the police. Where possible, we always press for maximum charges.

As a leading source of payday loans in the UK, borrowers looking for short term loans can be reassured that Payday Express is a responsible lender and takes the necessary measures to guard against online fraud.

The Money Shop opens its 350th UK store in Southport

8th November 2010

The Money Shop, the UKs number one instant cash provider, officially opened its 350th UK store in the seaside town of Southport today (Monday 8 November).

Southport is one of the North Wests most quintessential Victorian seaside resorts and home to the UKs oldest iron pier, beautiful beaches and world class golf, with over 20 miles of unspoilt coastline. Located at 22 London Street the new Money Shop store will offer a range of financial products and services.

The Money Shop hosted a celebratory event at the store with staff on hand to answer questions about the range of products and services, which include payday loans, foreign exchange, pawnbroking, Gold to Cash, cheque cashing, Western Union money transfer products and other ancillary products and services.

Nicola Mooney, Southport Store Manager said: Im really excited about welcoming customers to the new store. Ill be heading up the three-strong team and we hope the celebrations will help build consumer awareness of the Money Shop brand.

Andrew Bryan, Marketing Director, UK, The Money Shop, comments: Were thrilled to be opening our 350th store in Southport. Managing finances is important at any time, but the economic downturn is encouraging more of us to look for alternative financial solutions. The Money Shop provides viable alternatives to those who might find it difficult to secure credit from the banks. Were delighted to introduce our range of convenient financial solutions to the people of Southport.

The Money Shop, part of publicly listed American company, Dollar Financial, has been established on the UK high street for 14 years. The opening of this new store in Southport further expands the Money Shops pawn broking business, positioning it as the largest lender in the UK pawn market.

The Money Shop opened its first store in Nottingham in 1996 and now employs over 1500 people across its network, serving over 450,000 customers a year often in communities which have been vacated by traditional banks and post offices.

Photo caption: Money Shop UK Marketing Director Andrew Bryan (left) and store manager Nicola Mooney at the 350th Money Shop store in Southport.

Parents feel the pinch as university kids make calls for more cash

6th October 2010

- Bank of Mum & Dad takes the strain even after kids leave for university
- Parents making financial sacrifices to fund student lifestyle

A new report from The Money Shop, the UKs number one instant cash provider, has revealed that reduced funding for universities over the last five years have forced parents of students across the country to adapt a more frugal lifestyle.

With A-level pass rates now at an unprecedented high, and more students than ever in higher education, financial pressures are more widespread than ever before. Whats more The Money Shops study has found that young people are also more expectant of financial support placing new pressure on parents.

The report, commissioned by The Money Shop this month, surveyed the parents of children who have been in higher education in the last five years, asking them about the financial strains that they are under as a result of their children going to university.

More than three quarters of parents surveyed (82%) receive at least one request for cash loans per academic term, 27 per cent of which receive between five and ten requests and 15 per cent who receive ten or more. Whats more nearly half (44%) have given in to pressure to provide financial support from their children, despite knowing it will compromise them financially. Guilt is the main driver with two thirds (66%) admitting to feeling guilty about refusing ad hoc requests for cash.

Over half (60%) of parents surveyed said that they were worried about the financial pressures they face as a result of their children continuing in education. Added pressures came from expectation on them to provide financial support with more than one in five (21%) facing protests from their children if they refused requests for help.

With their kids away at university a third of parents said they would like to use their new found freedom to travel the world (30%) or take a holiday of a lifetime (30%) but are sacrificing their dreams to cover impromptu requests for cash from their children. Although the majority of students (56%) ask for less than 100 per loan one in ten students demand as much as 500 every time they ask for cash from their parents.

Whats more whilst the parents are cutting back and forgoing the latest technologies, students are well equipped with all the latest gadgets at their disposal. In fact 83% own a laptop, almost half (47%) own an iPhone or the latest games console (49%) and a quarter (23%) own a HDTV. More surprising is that unwilling to take the bus, one third of students (30%) own their own car, despite a quarter of parents having to sacrifice a new motor to support their children.

Andrew Bryan, Marketing Director, The Money Shop, said: Money worries are a huge concern for parents with children at university and with fees set to rise even further families are under increased strain. Parents struggle to refuse their children financial support but giving in to repeat requests for cash loans can lead to serious financial difficulties unless properly managed. The Money Shop provides a range of products which are designed to help parents in this type of emergency situation. Payday loans for example, enable fast access to cash and provide a short-term solution without the need to get into deep financial difficulties.

For more information visit www.moneyshop.tv

MP finds out what's in store at The Money Shop

21st September 2010

Ian Mearns, Labour MP for Gateshead, paid a visit to the Gateshead branch of The Money Shop, the UK's number one instant cash provider, this week, to find out more about the range of financial solutions available on the high street.

The Money Shop, which has a store in High Street, recently became a member of National Pawnbroking Association (NPA), forming the largest network of pawnbroking stores in the UK, is inviting MPs to its stores as part of a scheme to educate Parliamentarians about the history of the business and the products they offer.

A successful pawn broking service has been available at The Money Shop amongst its list of services for several years. The full range of Money Shop consumer financial products and services include payday loans, foreign exchange, pawnbroking, 'Gold to Cash', cheque cashing, Western Union money transfer products and other ancillary products and services. Mr Mearns was shown around The Money Shop premises, and met with the Head of UK Compliance, Caroline Walton, and Store Manager Fiona Clark. They discussed the impact of the recession on consumers and their business and its effect on the services they offer.

Mr Mearns commented: "I was impressed with the friendliness, professionalism and customer care of the staff I met during my visit to the Money Shop and it's quite clear that the Money Shop offers a competitive service in a market that can be a mine field for customers."

Ms Walton added: "Managing finances is important at any time, but the current economic downturn is encouraging more of us to look for alternative financial solutions. It's good to see MPs such as Mr Mearns, taking an interest in the services we offer to consumers and how The Money Shop can provide viable alternatives to those who might find it difficult to secure credit from the banks."

The Money Shop opened its first store in Nottingham in 1996 and now employs over 1500 people across its network, serving over 400,000 customers a year often in communities which have been vacated by traditional banks and post offices.

QuickQuid Payday Loans Save Customers Money

1st September 2010

The Office of Fair Trading report published June 2010 stated Payday Loans can be cheaper than unarranged overdrafts.

According to the OFT, "Customers of payday loans often take them out in preference to unarranged overdrafts which can be more expensive." Unarranged overdrafts can be very expensive for Britons in a bind, and the BBC estimates British banks generate 2.6 billion a year from unauthorised overdraft fees.

A uSwitch report published in June 2010 revealed that approximately 1 in 3 banking customers had overdrawn their accounts. In addition, 2 million customers experienced unauthorised overdrafts at least 4 times a year, which cost an average of 70 per occurrence.

A payday loan from QuickQuid provides Britons a much better alternative. For example, a 100 unauthorised overdraft taken for 15 days would cost 50 or more at most High Street banks. In contrast, a 100 QuickQuid payday loan borrowed over 15 days would cost only 18.75.

Moreover, QuickQuid recently released a new television ad campaign featuring a talking purse and wallet, respectively named Purse and Wally. The ad (seen here http://www.quickquid.co.uk/videos) depicts Wally and Purse discussing the difference between bank overdraft fees and Short Term Loans.

"QuickQuid customers are savvy internet shoppers who understand that our payday loans are cheaper compared to unarranged overdrafts," says Alex King, Managing Director of QuickQuid. "Our customers value our service and the cost savings we generate for them."

Not only are QuickQuid's Wally and Purse discussing the advantage of payday loans, so are their customers. QuickQuid customers voiced their appreciation in a June 2010 customer satisfaction survey:

"I was able to get the cash I needed for only a small fee instead of over a hundred in overdraft charges!" Lucy M.

"when I went 28 overdrawn for 6 days they [the bank] charged me 105 and failed to inform me" said QuickQuid customer Graham E., who vented his frustration with the lack of notification from his bank. Graham went on to voice his satisfaction with QuickQuid, "QuickQuid dispatched the loan amount in the same day, saving me hundreds of pounds in banks fees and overall costing around 30 40 to borrow the money. If QuickQuid were not so quick to help and reasonably priced I would still be sinking in bank fees today."

"QuickQuid hasn't just saved me money, it's given me more freedom too. Without the worry of overdrafts and missing payments on bills to incur charges. The company is a blessing, really." Kate S.

QuickQuid has generated significant cost savings for Britons since 2007 after having issued more than 500,000 payday loans. It is encouraging that the OFT recognises the cost savings the payday loan industry provides to Britons temporarily short on cash.

You can find out more at www.QuickQuid.co.uk. Also, you can contact Andrew LaPointe at 0808 101 7453 or email media@quickquid.co.uk.

MP finds out what's in store at The Money Shop

27th August 2010

Gregory Campbell, Democratic Unionist Party MP for Londonderry East, paid a visit today to the Coleraine branch of The Money Shop, the UK's number one instant cash provider, to find out more about the range of financial solutions available on the high street.

The Money Shop, which opened its Coleraine store in March this year, recently became a member of National Pawnbroking Association (NPA), forming the largest network of pawnbroking stores in the UK, is inviting MPs to its stores as part of a scheme to educate Parliamentarians about the history of the business and the products they offer.

A successful pawn broking service has been available at The Money Shop amongst its list of services for several years. The full range of Money Shop consumer financial products and services include cheque cashing, short-term loans such as 'Cash 'til Payday', foreign exchange, Western Union money transfer products and other ancillary products and services.

Mr Campbell was shown around The Money Shop premises, and met with the Head of UK Compliance, Caroline Walton, and Store Manager Gary Loughery. They discussed the impact of the recession on consumers and their business and its effect on the services they offer.

Mr Campbell commented: "I was particularly impressed with the professionalism and dedication of the staff I met during my visit to The Money Shop. The level of customer care was second to none with services on offer of a wide range and variety. It was interesting to learn about the work of The Money Shop at such an important time in the economy of the UK."

Ms Walton added: "Managing finances is important at any time, but the current economic downturn is encouraging more of us to look for alternative financial solutions. It's good to see MPs such as Mr Campbell, taking an interest in the services we offer to consumers and how The Money Shop can provide viable alternatives to those who might find it difficult to secure credit from the banks."

The Money Shop opened its first store in Nottingham in 1996 and now employs over 1500 people across its network, serving over 400,000 customers a year often in communities which have been vacated by traditional banks and post offices.

No Hidden Fees with QuickQuid Payday Loans

26th August 2010

QuickQuid payday loan terms are transparent to customers and contain absolutely no hidden fees. While other lenders may surprise customers with annoying extra fees that increase their short term loan costs, QuickQuid charges:

   NO application fee
   NO same-day funding fee
   NO monthly account maintenance fees
   NO extension fees
   NO collection fees
   NO post default interest

QuickQuid Payday Loans require only a flat finance charge for the services provided when customers pay by their due date. Customers paying late would incur a default fee, one of the lowest in the industry. These charges are clearly defined and presented to every customer prior to signing the payday loan agreement. These practices affirm our commitment to transparent lending.

Responses in a recent survey confirm that our customers feel the same way:

"you know how much the [QuickQuid] charge will be up front. There are no hidden charges so you are not taken by surprise--unlike Bank Charges." Mary T.

"Quick Quid tells me exactly what I have to pay and by when - I always know what I owe and what I'm being charged for." Peter G.

"QuickQuid is a fixed rate with no surprises." Christopher B.

Should questions ever arise, QuickQuid payday loan customers know they can contact us via phone, email or online chat.

QuickQuid will continue to communicate with our customers in an open and honest manner, consistent with our commitment to be the UK's #1 trusted online lender.

For more information, contact Andrew LaPointe at 0808 101 7453 or media@quickquid.co.uk.

QuickQuid Selected as Finalist for Alternative Lender of the Year

12th August 2010

London, England QuickQuid was recently nominated as a finalist for Alternative Lender of the Year at the 11th Annual Credit Today Awards. The Alternative Lender of the Year Award recognises the industry's highest achiever for following best practices while raising industry standards.

According to Credit Today, a record 158 nominations were whittled down to 67 finalists, and several judges rated the quality of submissions the highest ever in Awards' history.

Jeremy Sutcliffe, honorary VP of Civil Court Users Association and one of the judges, said "This year's finalists were undoubtedly the best yet." Finalists in other categories included Barclay's, British Gas and Mercedes-Benz Financial Services.

We believe QuickQuid was selected as a finalist because of our strong business practices:

   Responsible lender with no hidden fees
   Viable alternative for underserved customers with short-term credit needs
   Professional and courteous customer service

"We value this nomination and will continue to provide our customers with first-class service, rigorous security measures and a crystal-clear application process. This will allow customers to have the information needed to make informed financial decisions." says Olga Dolchenko, Operations Manager for QuickQuid.

The high profile Credit Today Awards are run by the Credit Today magazine, one of the UK's leading publications for the consumer and commercial credit industry. The awards ceremony attracts 1,500 credit professionals and honours the industry's outstanding achievers.

For more information, contact Andrew LaPointe at 0808 101 7453 or media@quickquid.co.uk.

New Cheque Centre store opens in Carlisle

27 May 2010

Carlisle United legend Jimmy Glass cut the ribbon to officially open the newest branch of Cheque Centre on Thursday 27th May, located at 10 Devonshire Street.

The Carlisle store launch is part of a massive expansion programme that will see around 50 Cheque Centre stores open across the UK in 2010. The new Cheque Centre store will create three new jobs for the area and will be run by Branch Manager Chris Simpson, 32, from Carlisle, along with Customer Service Representatives Charlotte Robertson, 19, from Carlisle and Ross Scott, 26, from Workington.

Cheque Centre has over 140 stores throughout Scotland, England and Wales. The company offers instant cash solutions to customers such as Short Term Loans, Cheque Cashing, Foreign Currency, Gold, Worldwide Money Transfers and Fixed Term Loans.

Cheque Centre Managing Director Billy Shaw comments: Cheque Centre is delighted to be opening a store in Carlisle and looks forward to assisting the local community with all their financial needs.

For more information visit: www.chequecentre.co.uk

Former Scotland Manager Craig Brown launches 2010's search for Scottish Football Hall of Fame inductees

27 May 2010

Former Scotland manager and current Motherwell boss Craig Brown has launched the search for the legends to be inducted in 2010 into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame.

With the tournament looming large in South Africa, Craig was the last Scottish Manager to lead Scotland to the World Cup Finals. That was back in France in 1998 where Scotland lost 2 1 in the opening game against Brazil with a Tom Boyd own goal. He will also lead Motherwell into Europe next season.

This years inductees will be announced at a star-studded dinner in Glasgows Hilton Hotel on Sunday November 14 supported by Cheque Centre.

The inductees are those truly great players, managers and officials who have reached the pinnacle of their profession and have made a significant contribution to Scottish footballs reputation through their skill, spirit and determination.

Tables can be secured by calling 0141 309 1438.

The full list of Hall of Fame members are:

2004 Inductees - Willie Woodburn, Jim Baxter, Sir Alex Ferguson, Graeme Souness, John Greig, Jock Stein, Bill Shankly, Billy McNeill, Jimmy McGrory, Danny McGrain, Sir Matt Busby, Bobby Murdoch, Jimmy Johnstone, Billy Bremner, Dave Mackay, Denis Law, Gordon Smith, Willie Miller, Hughie Gallacher, Kenny Dalglish.

2005 Inductees - Alan Morton, Alex McLeish, Bobby Lennox, Alex James, Charles Campbell, George Young, Jim McLean, Joe Jordan, John White, Lawrie Reilly, Willie Waddell.

2006 Inductees - Willie Henderson, Davie Cooper, Tommy Gemmell, Richard Gough, Willie Ormond, John Robertson, Tommy Walker, Brian Laudrup, Billy Steel, Sandy Jardine, Henrik Larsson.

2007 Inductees - Walter Smith, Gordon Strachan, Allan Hansen, Ally McCoist, Rose Reilly, Eddie Turnbull, Willie Bauld, Eric Caldow and Jimmy Cowan.

2008 Inductees John Thomson, Bill Struth, Billy Liddell, Jim Leighton, Derek Johnstone, Bobby Evans, Archie Gemmill and Ian St John.

2009 Inductees Willie Maley, Davie Meiklejohn, Jimmy Delaney, Alan Gilzean, Bertie Auld, Maurice Johnston, Paul Lambert, Steve Archibald.

The Hall of Fame is a permanent feature in the Scottish Football Museum at Hampden Park.

Football fans can participate by logging on to sfmhalloffame.com and nominate the personality of their choice. You can also post your nomination to: Scottish Football Hall of Fame, Hampden Park, Glasgow G42 9BA. Closing date for nominations is midday on Monday, August 31.

A panel of experts from the world of football and the media will consider nominees and elect successful candidates.

MP visits local business to find out how locals are coping in tough times

Braintree MP, Mr Brooks Newmark, has paid a visit to Cash Converters in Braintree, on a fact finding mission to talk to local residents about how they are coping in the current economic climate.

Mr Newmark was welcomed by the store manager Emily Temperton and business development manager, John Colbert, before being shown around the busy store on Little Square.

During the visit to Cash Converters, Mr Newmark was told about the services offered in store before meeting some of the shops customers.

After watching the store in operation, Mr Newmark asked the branch staff how the business had been affected by the recession. He also discussed at some length the best way to protect vulnerable consumers particularly those with the lowest incomes who might have found it hard to obtain credit through mainstream outlets, and were now searching for credit alternatives.

He was told that, as a specialist in second-hand goods retailing, pawn broking and the provision of a range of short term financial services, Cash Converters operates a responsible lending policy which includes encouraging customers to shop around.

During the visit, John Colbert also told Mr Newmark that, as a company, Cash Converters welcomed the regulation of the industry and would encourage proper controls to protect customers, but said the sort of specialist services offered by businesses such as Cash Converters had a very important role to play:

There is a demand for services which meet short term cash flow problems and Cash Converters is helping to meet that demand. But we work to the highest ethical standards, so we only lend to customers an amount they can afford to repay, whichever service they use. We will always discuss it with the customer and ensure they are not stretched beyond their means.

Mr Newmark MP said: "I was delighted to visit Cash Converters. In these tough economic times, Cash Converters are providing the extra cash needed for individuals and families who are having short term cashflow problems. I was very impressed with the management and staff and the valuable service Cash Converters provides our local community."

Cash Converters is the UKs number one retailer of pre-owned goods and the largest of its kind in the world. Since being launched in Australia in 1984 the company has grown enormously with more than 500 stores in over 21 countries worldwide.

Cheque Centre backs search for legends to join Scottish Football Hall of Fame

Former Celtic manager and player David Hay launched the search for legends to be inducted in 2009 into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame on 8 June.

This years inductees will be announced at a star-studded dinner in Glasgows Hilton Hotel in association with Cheque Centre.

The inductees are those truly great players, managers and officials who have reached the pinnacle of their profession and have made a significant contribution to Scottish footballs reputation through their skill, spirit and determination.

A panel of experts from the world of football and the media will consider nominees and elect the successful candidates.

The new members will be announced at a gala dinner at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow on Sunday, November 15.

The full list of Hall of Fame members is:

2004 Inductees - Willie Woodburn, Jim Baxter, Sir Alex Ferguson, Graeme Souness, John Greig, Jock Stein, Bill Shankly, Billy McNeill, Jimmy McGrory, Danny McGrain, Sir Matt Busby, Bobby Murdoch, Jimmy Johnstone, Billy Bremner, Dave Mackay, Denis Law, Gordon Smith, Willie Miller, Hughie Gallacher, Kenny Dalglish.

2005 Inductees - Alan Morton, Alex McLeish, Bobby Lennox, Alex James, Charles Campbell, George Young, Jim McLean, Joe Jordan, John White, Lawrie Reilly, Willie Waddell.

2006 Inductees - Willie Henderson, Davie Cooper, Tommy Gemmell, Richard Gough, Willie Ormond, John Robertson, Tommy Walker, Brian Laudrup, Billy Steel, Sandy Jardine, Henrik Larsson.

2007 Inductees - Walter Smith, Gordon Strachan, Allan Hansen, Ally McCoist, Rose Reilly, Eddie Turnbull, Willie Bauld, Eric Caldow and Jimmy Cowan.

2008 Inductees John Thomson, Bill Struth, Billy Liddell, Jim Leighton, Derek Johnstone, Bobby Evans, Archie Gemmill and Ian St John.

The Hall of Fame is a permanent feature in the Scottish Football Museum at Hampden Park. Football fans can participate by logging on to www.sfmhalloffame.com and nominating the personality of their choice. Or fans can post nominations to: Scottish Football Hall of Fame, Hampden Park, Glasgow G42 9BA. Closing date for nominations is midday on Monday 31 August 2009.

Online Payday Loans rated good value in customer survey

MEM commissioned Auriemma Consulting Group (ACG) to conduct an independent survey of more than 1000 of its customers. The survey found that nine out of ten rated the service as a convenient way to obtain cash quickly to cover unexpected bills or expenses.

MEM was established in 2003 to provide small, short-term loans typically 200, simply and quickly to online customers.

Key findings of the ACG survey were:

87% of customers would recommend MEM payday loans to a friend
95% of existing customers agree with the statement MEM does what they promise to do
Customer satisfaction is 96%
9 out of 10 existing customers think MEM payday loans are a convenient way to obtain cash quickly
95% of customers find customer service at MEM to be helpful and easy to understand

The general consensus among MEM customers surveyed was that because the service was online, there was no fuss in applying for a loan, which could be completed in a customers lunch break.

Bindu Varkey, Compliance & Corporate Communications Manager said: MEM is committed to lending responsibly in a clear and easy to understand manner. We take customers feedback very seriously and are delighted with the outcome of this independent survey.

Megan Bramlette, Managing Associate at Auriemma Consulting Group said, "These results indicate that consumer satisfaction with payday loans, and MEM in particular, exceeds levels typically seen at financial services companies. Clearly, there is a tremendous appetite for this type of loan among British consumers, and MEM appears well-positioned to retain its status as the UK's leading provider of payday loans.

Data from this study was generated from 1,123 web surveys given to existing MEM customers between November 2008 and March 2009.

      

Winning Old Firm player promotes the launch of the PFA Scotland Player of the Year Awards 2009 Sponsored by Cheque Centre

The search for the PFA Scotland Player of the Year 2009 is underway with voting open to footballers from across the four Scottish leagues, making this the ultimate accolade for any player.

At the launch event, Scot Macdonald from the CIS Cup winning side Celtic side offered his opinion on the players he believes deserve special recognition for their performances this season.

PFA Scotland Chief Executive Fraser Wishart commented: We are delighted that an Old Firm player has taken time out from a hectic playing schedule to help us launch the search for PFA Scotland Player of The Year, 2009.

In what has been an exciting season so far, several players have been in good form with no single clear-cut winner in sight. I think this will be one of the tightest contests yet.

The PFA Scotland Player of the Year 2009 will be announced at the PFA Scotland Awards Dinner on Sunday 3rd May hosted in conjunction with sponsor, Cheque Centre.

Karyn McKeirnan, Head of External Relations for Cheque Centre, said: Cheque Centre is extremely pleased to be sponsoring the PFA Scotland Player of the Year Awards 2009 for the first time.

These awards are the biggest and best football awards in the country, just as Cheque Centre is the best for top rates in the high street for foreign exchange.

Ally McCoist launches Cheque Centres euro promotion ahead of Holland v Scotland

Rangers' legend and Assistant Manager Ally McCoist launched Cheque Centres 0% interest rate on euros for Scotland fans travelling to Holland for the crucial World Cup qualifier on March 28.

For every Holland-bound Scotland fan who got their euros from Cheque Centre, the company promised to donate 1 to the Tartan Army Childrens Charity (reg charity no SCO 38330).

Cheque Centre, who offer the best rates on the High Street for foreign currency exchange, have branches throughout Britain.

"We've had an excellent response to the euro promotion, and are very pleased to be able to donate 1416 to the Tartan Army Children's Charity," said Karyn McKeirnan, Head of External Relations for Cheque Centre.