A KEIGHLEY centre has achieved a milestone in its battle to help free townspeople shackled with debt.

The Christians Against Poverty (CAP) initiative has received its 100th referral.

Since the centre – based at Keighley Shared Church – was set-up two years ago, it has surpassed all organisers’ expectations.

So far 15 families and individuals have been helped to become completely debt-free, with many more people currently receiving support towards the same goal.

Centre manager, Duncan Green, said the results of the venture were hugely rewarding to see.

He added: “Today we are in a position where getting credit is easy but, with very high interest rates on store cards and payday loans, the true cost of repayment is far greater than we could ever have imagined.

“One young man recently told me his burden of debt felt like he was drowning.

“For many people, debt is only one part of the picture, with underlying issues of anxiety, depression, addictions and poverty.

“Our team of befrienders is there to help in lots of ways.

“It’s a wonderful thing to see people’s lives transformed by love, friendship and the practical support on offer.”

Every person contacting CAP is offered free personalised support, friendship and help, alongside professional debt relief services provided by the Bradford-based organisation.

The Keighley centre is funded by the parish’s churches.

A team of volunteers operates the service, working alongside Mr Green.

Keighley team rector, the Rev Mike Cansdale, pays tribute to those involved.

And he hopes the service could be expanded if funding can be found.

“As Christians we take seriously the call of Jesus to bring good news to the poor and freedom to those who feel trapped,” he said.

“It is a real privilege to be there at the centre with these people and it’s a great celebration each time we hear that someone is debt-free.

“Christians Against Poverty exists to bring hope to those who feel that debt has weighed them down and from which there is little or no chance of escape.

“Our partnership with CAP is very important to us as we respond to the needs around us in Keighley.

“I’m really proud of the work that Duncan and our volunteers do.

“We’d like to expand the work of our centre to help even more people if the funds can be found.”

CAP can be contacted on 0800 3280006.