FORMER Manchester City footballer and radio pundit Gary Owen was on hand to help open the new Swinton branch of finance broker United Finance.

But rather than just performing his normal ribbon-cutting duties, Owen declared the new branch open by kicking a ball through the front door, in front of an amused crowd of local on-lookers.

Gary said: "It put me under a bit of pressure having to get it right in front of so many people. It turned out fine though, but I still think that City Finance would have been a better name!"

United Finance director Richard Dixon said: "Today's customers like to shop around for the best deal when they are looking for a personal loan or re-mortgage, but find that they end up having to pay legal or broker fees or both. Our products offer a fee free' alternative that can save them money"

Mr Dixon added that the group plans to open more North West branches.