May 22, 2001 15:09: TRADING standards officers have been given £5,000 to set up a new advice network for people seeking fair deals.

Lewisham Consumer Network will provide better access to help and encourage links between the local council and organisations such as the Citizens' Advice Bureau.

Training will also be given to consumer advice recruits following the government funding.

The CAB, Money Advice Service, Lewisham Information and Advice Service, New Cross and Deptford Credit Union and the 170 Community Project in New Cross have signed up.