WORKING together is the key to saving money, according to Bolton Wholefood Co-operative.

Members of the group pool their money to buy food in bulk, making their shopping cheaper.

They use wholesalers, such as Suma in Halifax, to purchase staples like rice, dried beans, tea, coffee, toiletries and cleaning products.

Throughout November, The Bolton News is running a Beat The Crunch campaign packed with advice, tips and money-saving coupons.

And Bolton Wholefood Co-operative is yet another of our examples of how people can save money as the credit crunch bites.

Vicky Urmston, aged 46, of Gresley Avenue, Horwich, has been involved in the scheme for four years.

She says it definitely saves her, her partner Boyd Lee, and their sons Rhain, aged 15, and Brook, aged eight, a lot of money.

Miss Urmston said: “I have looked at what I buy from the Co-operative and the cost, and if you compare it with getting the same items elsewhere, I reckon it would cost almost a third more.

“I spend £110 every six weeks with the Co-operative and get some extra items elsewhere.

“I pay the same amount out on food now as I did two years ago, which I think is good with prices going up.

“It saves me money and it helps the environment as there is less packaging and I go shopping less.

“I also have access to different brands, so I get more variety and eat better.”

The group has about a dozen members and places orders every six weeks.

The goods are delivered to Bolton Greenhouse Project in Horwich and shared out among the members.

Kath Baron, aged 43, lives in Syndale Close, Westhoughton, with her partner Andy Boardman.

She has been part of the Co-operative since it began 20 years ago.

“I joined to save money initially but there is also a healthy eating aspect,” she said.

“I get as much food as I can from the Co-operative and try to avoid supermarkets.

“It definitely saves me money and I would recommend it to anyone who is feeling the pinch.”

Bolton Wholefood Co-operative wants more people to join the scheme or start their own with family, friends or neighbours.

To find out more about Bolton Wholefood Co-operative visit boltonwholefoodcoop.co.uk.

You can also contact member Kath Baron on 07990 774434 for information or advice on setting up your own group.