THE Dorchester service point for the First Dorset Credit Union is holding its 3,000th session today.

The service point, which began operating in July 1999, now holds seven sessions a week in High East Street to help members access affordable loans and savings.

Chairman of the Dorchester branch Jenny Thomasson said: “We have seen membership increase from a handful of members to several thousand now, savings from a few thousand to a million pounds and loans from nothing to about five hundred and fifty thousand pounds.

“I recall that earlier this year we stayed open even when banks and building societies in Dorchester remained closed during snowy weather.”

She added: “The branch is able to serve local members some of whom depend on FDCU to receive their benefits from Department of Work and Pensions and treat the credit union like a high street bank, repaying their loans drawing out cash as they require it.

“This can only be successful when members can call in any weekday and be assured of service.”