THE Signpost Advisory Service is a new confidential agency opening in Tyldesley town centre this week to fill an advice void.

Its aim is to point the public in the right direction, as a point of first contact for anyone with problems of any kind.

Free help can be obtained or, where more specialist advice is required, Signpost can refer people to a more qualified advice agency.

A spokesman said: "Where referral of cases is considered the best option, we aim to find the most appropriate agency on behalf of our client to rid them of the need for soul-destroying 'advice Shopping'.

"Membership of the Advice Provider's Forum helps us in this since we regularly meet with other agencies and get

information from them.

"This includes the form which the initial approach and presentation of a case should best take to obtain specialised help. We will also hold and display literature and information from appropriate bodies."

The service is at the Tyldesley Community Education Centre in the former Tech building in Upper George Street. Signpost will provide free and confidential advice to the public on all problems, including benefits, housing, welfare matters, advocacy and representation, or even simple form filling or letter writing.

Sessions run from 9.30am to 12noon, 1pm to 4.30pm and 6.30pm to 9pm.

Volunteers with relevant experience are sought as an interviewer or advisor. Anyone interested should ring 01942 799339 or Clive Robinson on 01942 796720.