Louise Morgan (left) and Jenny Challenor of Torquil Clark get ready to receive the first calls from readers at the newly launched financial services company.

Shropshire Star readers now have access to competitively priced financial products thanks to the launch of a new business by the Shropshire Star in partnership with local Independent Financial Services company, Torquil Clark.

The new company called ‘Star Extra Financial Services’ offers Shropshire Star readers access to a range of competitively priced financial products through a local and established company.

Telephone lines opened today, providing immediate access for readers wanting a personal quote for Buildings and Contents Insurance, Life Insurance, Accident Sickness and Unemployment cover and a life insurance plan specifically for people aged 50 and over.

Star Extra Financial Services is set to grow quickly with new products, such as investments and private medical insurance being introduced to readers in the near future.

Colin Spicer, managing director at the Shropshire Star said: “The credit crunch is having a significant impact on many homes across the region.

Louise Morgan (front left), Jenny Challenor (front right) and John Chapman from Torquil Clark are joined by Viv Birch from the newspaper to launch Star Extra Financial Services.

“We wanted to expand our range of services to meet the changing economic climate and the current needs of our readers.

“Torquil Clark is a well known local financial services company, experienced in helping people find the best deal, we hope readers find this addition to our range of services useful.”

Readers are able to call for a no obligation quote and may be able to switch provider, if the premiums are cheaper for comparable cover.

Torquil Clark ‘s managing director John Chapman, said: “We know people are concerned about the rising costs of living at the moment, we hope to be able to offer Shropshire Star readers a comparable, and more affordable solution to their financial needs, all arranged through a simple free phone call.”

For a quote from Star Extra Financial Services, call 0800 294 7225. Lines are open from Monday to Thursday 9am to 8pm, Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday 10am to 4 pm.

Star Extra Financial Services Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Torquil Clark Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority