Loan sharks are targeted

Last updated 13:41, Thursday, 08 May 2008

LOAN sharks in Cumbria are to be targeted by a special squad of investigators based in Birmingham.

The Government-backed scheme, which already operates in other parts of the north west, will be launched in Cumbria today. The team has been given authority by Cumbria County Council to track down suspected loan sharks.

Each year more than 165,000 households with money problems are exploited by loan sharks, who charge huge rates of interest and often use violence and intimidation.

People with concerns about illegal money lenders will be able to get in touch with the team of investigators on 0300 5552222 or by emailing stoploansharks@cumbriacc.gov.uk.