MP Gordon Banks has hailed a recent financial services drop-in event as a resounding success, writes Michelle Henderson.

Local Labour man Gordon and representatives of the Financial Ombudsman Service, held the drop in surgery at Asda’s Alloa store on Friday, April 4, allowing constituents to raise concerns they had.

The MP said, “It was great to welcome the Financial Ombudsman Service to Alloa and to allow local residents to raise any issues they may have and gather more expert advice.

“My office has noticed a rise in the number of complaints and concerns regarding the financial services sector and I’m glad we were able to arrange for the FOS to hold a drop in event in the town. “ Gordon has received a large number of enquiries and concerns covering a variety of different topics related to finances.

One area which is a growing concern is the number of customer complaints about – and at times the lack of a suitable response from – banks, building societies and other financial institutions.

Gordon added, “In these tough financial times it is important that our financial services sector responds to the concerns of its customers.

“So whether you are in dispute with your bank, concerned about PPI or have any other concern about the financial services industry then the FOS should be able to offer you advice and assistance.” “We spoke to a number of constituents about their issues and hopefully we will be able to make some progress. Although the drop-in session is over, my staff and I can still assist you with these issues.”