WARRINGTON Borough Council is raising awareness of loan sharks with an interactive family event next week.

Residents are being invited to come along and meet Sharky, the national anti-loan shark mascot and Wolfie while getting a range of help, support and advice.

Warrington Borough Council, together with the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), Warrington Credit Union and the council’s youth and neighbourhoods teams, are coordinating the event as part of their work to raise awareness about the perils of loan sharks.

It will take place at the Cockhedge Centre on Monday between 10am and 3pm.

Cllr Judith Guthrie, executive board member for environment and public protection said: "Illegal money lenders can have a horrific impact on our communities and should never be used under any circumstances.

"It is important for people to realise that alternatives to borrowing from loan sharks are available if you are in financial difficulty.

"Loan sharks are not welcome in Warrington and we will continue to work closely with the Illegal Money Lending Team to stamp out this awful crime that affects the most vulnerable.

"A key part of our work is to educate families so that they can avoid falling prey to this criminal act."

Tony Quigley, head of the England Illegal Money Lending Team, said: "We’re pleased to be working with our partners to raise awareness of the risks posed by illegal money lenders and provide guidance on where victims can get help.

"Loan sharks are unscrupulous criminals who prey on vulnerable people, charging exorbitant rates of interest and using fear and intimidation to recover monies ‘owed’.

"We urge victims of loan sharks to contact us in confidence on 0300 555 2222 and help us bring these crooked lenders to justice."

The event is aimed at the whole family and there will be prizes up for grabs in special 'guess the number' and 'where’s Sharky?' competitions.

Children can also have their picture taken with Wolfie and Sharky.