THE effects of the recession have hit home in Honiton, prompting an advice centre to extend its opening hours.

THE effects of the recession have hit home in Honiton, prompting an advice centre to extend its opening hours.Job losses, debt problems and homelessness in the town have increased, according to the Citizens' Advice Bureau which is increasing opening hours of its New Street offices to help more people"If you are having debt problems the big thing is don't panic, do something practical by coming to see us," said Chris Griffiths, district manager of the service in East Devon. "Our advisers will help you regain control of your finances and your life." Mr Griffiths said the present situation is not just about debt. There are other consequences to the drop in trade and the closure of businesses - all of which can have an effect on people's lives and families. A spokesperson for CAB said: "We are not just a debt advice agency, we can help you with a whole range of problem areas - housing, relationships, immigration, discrimination even education - and if the CAB is not the right service for you, we can signpost you to the one that is. So don't panic and don't ignore the problem - take that all important first step and come and talk to us."Citizens Advice Service East Devon is a charity. New times for drop-in session are Monday and Thursday 9.30am to 3.30pm, Tuesday and Friday 9.30am to 12.30pm. Appointments will be available on Monday and Thursday afternoons. Telephone advice available on (01404) 44213 during opening hours.Visit the charity's new website at www.eastdevoncab.org.uk for further information.