Avoid debt trapsays Executive

Tenants of the Housing Executive in Ballymena have been urged to keep a close eye on their spending over the Christmas period.

And they have urged their customers to get their priorities right in a hard hitting advisory statement on debt and rent arrears.

A spokesman said: “We know it’s difficult for many households at this time of the year. It’s easy to overspend with tempting offers and pressures to buy, but you should remember to prioritise paying your rent or mortgage, and utility bills. Having a home is more important than any Christmas present. Last year 75 Housing Executive homes had to be repossessed because of significant debt levels.”