I've got a confession to make, on Saturday morning I had an appointment with my bank about a consolidation loan.
I know, I know I'm supposed to be saving money and getting out of debt but I was going through my finances last week with a fine tooth comb and worked out that I have two loans and a maxed out credit card all with my bank and am collectively paying them a lot of money each month (almost half my monthly salary!) which could maybe be reduced if consolidated, thus saving me money- logical.
I didn't want any extra money from the loan, just a reduction to my monthly out-goings, that's why I got the appointment.
However I was refused the loan as I failed on the banks point scoring system, I used to live with my parents before, which almost always guaranteed a loan, but now my circumstance have changed and I'm renting I lose points. I've not been in my job for three years yet, so I lost points there too.
I admit I am a bit disappointed but on the other hand its just as well I was refused more credit because if I was granted the loan my repayments would have almost doubled due to the loan protection included and the APR rate they expected me to pay.
I'm guessing the stupidly high rate is to probably pay the wages for all the singing staff they have on the tv now!
Anyway besides the let down, (I hate being refused anything), I actually feel a little better about what I am paying out for my existing loans as the rate on them is really very low. I just need to try and balance transfer my credit card balance to a 0% card and cut up the old one. Lesson learned.

On a lighter note, a very generous reader of my Penny Pincher blog has taken pity on my poor little existence and offered me something for free, which I am very excited about.
As of tonight I will be starting a six-week pole-dancing course, which usually cost £90, thanks to the lovely Zara Groves of the Break 'n' Spin Dance Studio (home of Sharp-Shooters Entertainments) in Llandudno. www.breaknspin.co.uk www.sharp-shooters.co.uk
So I will let you know how the class goes later in the week. If anyone or business wants to also take pity on me and offer me free stuff to help with my Penny Pinching quest please feel free! Hint hint!

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