Read the small print - that is good advice at any time of the year, but particularly at Christmas.

In the wake of the Farepak collapse, leaflets are being distributed by a finance company at Greater Leys in Oxford encouraging people to buy gift vouchers. When money is tight and demands are high, it is always tempting to think that a loan will solve all your worries.

But of course, there is always a catch.

You will always pay back much more than you receive, otherwise the loan company wouldn't bother.

In the current case featuring Greenwood Personal Finance, it appears that repayments attract an interest rate as high as 222 per cent APR. Those who sign on the dotted line without checking what they are committing themselves to, can expect a big shock in due course.

Many will find themselves much deeper in debt than they are now, and face a struggle for years. We echo the words of Blackbird Leys councillor Stuart Craft said when he says: "I would urge residents to steer clear of doorstep money lenders.

"I understand the temptation to buy now and pay later, especially when you don't have the money to give the family the Christmas they deserve, but these companies are only interested in parting you and your money."

Sound advice - keep well clear of such offers.