The Autumn's ahead, and with it opportunities to help build Crediton's economy in a sustainable way.

Plough and Share Credit Union's local service point has been offered the chance to open in a new venue, bringing its services closer to those who need them. And it will need more help if it is going to be open in two places in the town.

At the same time Crediton Community Book Shop is near its target of £39,000 needed for working capital, stock, fixtures and fittings and everything else on its shopping list. Then it can start trading. That means it needs to start training the volunteers who will work alongside the new manager to run the shop after the takeover.

Cathie Holden, a Director of Crediton Community Book Shop and member of the volunteering committee, said: "If you have ever wanted to get involved in running a Book Shop, or want to add retailing skills to your CV, this is a great chance. We are looking for people now who are prepared to help us on a regular basis by working in the shop.

"There are many things to do behind the scenes too, from helping with admin and finances, to running events, marketing and helping with the website."

Plough and Share Credit Union also offers opportunities for meeting new people and giving them some real, practical help. It has now been running in the town for nearly a year, and is ready to expand, if volunteers come forward.

According to lead volunteer John Skrine: "We've shown that our presence in the town can really boost the ability of this not-for-profit organisation to increase the number of borrowers and lenders who want to support an ethical financial organisation. It also offers an alternative to commercial lenders who charge very high interest rates. And all the money from savers and borrowers stays in the county.

"Our volunteers look after the service point for just two hours once a month and help with marketing when they can. They never work alone. As we expand, we need more help."

To find out more about either of these opportunities and arrange a chat,  email volunteers@creditoncommunitybookshop.co.uk. For the Credit Union, email John Skrine at johnskrine@gmail.com.