A Christmas advertising campaign is being launched in Leeds as part of a battle against payday lenders.

People are being urged to go the city’s credit union rather than payday loan companies if they need extra money. The advertising initiative is being launched by the city council and Leeds City Credit Union – with adverts on buses, bus shelters and leaflets – as part of the Take a Stand campaign against high-cost lenders.

Councillor Keith Wakefield, leader of Leeds City Council, said: “Christmas can be a very stressful time of year for many people, especially those who are already struggling financially or worried about getting into debt. It is also a time when so-called payday lenders increase their advertising tactics, often targeting those who can least afford it.

“Marketing of well-known brands has convinced many people to think of payday loans as normal and an easy way out of their problems. However, loans of this type can lead to debts spiralling out of control.

“This is why it is so important that everyone knows that the Leeds City Credit Union is a realistic alternative, offering low-cost, easy-access loans but without the extortionate interest rates.”