DEBT and fears of unemployment are two factors fuelling a call for more volunteers at the East Dorset branch of the Citizen's Advice Bureau.

As the credit crunch bites harder, the district's branch of the charity is seeking more volunteers to cope with increasing concerns about employment and finance.

Volunteers from all walks of life already give as much as a working day every week to helping people struggling with debt, redundancy and bereavement.

Rose Turner joined the East Dorset CAB as an advisor two years ago, after serving as a magistrate for 15 years.

"The work can be very demanding, but is extremely rewarding.

"It's one of those jobs which can leave you feeling that you've done something wonderful," said Mrs Turner.

Hilary Forrest, the manager of the East Dorset CAB, described the service as "absolutely vital", with its importance gaining as the economy declines.

The charity has offices in Wimborne Minster and Ferndown, and outreach centres in GP surgeries in Cranborne, Sixpenny Handley, and Verwood. More than 20 volunteers support 35 advisors.

Diane March, the chair of Friends of East Dorset CAB, said her committee had managed to raise more than £5,000 a year for the CAB for the last five years.

Prohibitive costs of professional services would prevent many clients from buying the advice the CAB provides for free, she added.

An introductory session is to be held at the CAB in Wimborne on September 10, and at Christchurch branch on September 12.

For further information, call 01202 857100 or 01202 488442.