Northumberland Community Bank was formed in April 2017 by the merger of the Tynedale Community Bank and the Credit Union for South East Northumberland. Run by volunteers, the bank’s aim is to offer a community-based alternative and stop people having to go to payday lenders, while reinvesting any profits in community projects.

Welcoming Northumberland County Council’s decision to support and invest in the Community Bank, Mr Opperman said:

“One of my biggest achievements as an MP was the creation of the Tynedale Community Bank, which was launched at Hexham Abbey in 2015 by the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu. Northumberland faces significant financial inclusion challenges that have a huge impact on our most vulnerable and disadvantaged communities.

"I therefore welcome the Council’s decision to build on the success of the Tynedale Community Bank and support and invest in the Northumberland Community Bank. I wish the project continued success.”

The bank will be rolling out across the county in the coming months.