Iain McClung, who has lived in Girvan for over 30 years, has joined the growing number of people who have opted to open a current account with one of the UK's largest credit unions.
Iain, a risk management technician who has worked for South Ayrshire Council for 22 years, said: "I am delighted to be Scotwest's 100th current account member.
"My wife and I are both members and we strongly believe that credit unions offer a safe and secure way of saving especially if you have concerns regarding the UK's current financial climate.
"The current account is extremely beneficial. Each month my salary is paid directly into my current account and I can closely monitor my finances online.
"I can also set up a direct debit, which allows me to transfer money from my current account into my savings account quickly and efficiently.
"This is a huge help especially as the summer holiday season is fast approaching.
"The benefits of Scotwest credit union outweigh any other alternative which I have used in the past. I would really encourage others to follow suit and sign up."
Scotwest's current account provides members with an abundance of benefits.
Members are not faced with excessive charges which they cannot afford as often encountered with other banks and there is no overdraft facility to prevent customers from spending money they don't have, reducing the growing debt problem which is crippling thousands each day.
The account offers all of the standard services you would expect from a current account including the ability to set up direct debits, standing orders and fund transfers.
Salaries, pensions and benefits can be paid directly into members' current accounts and funds can also be easily transferred from a Scotwest savings account into a current account.
Credit unions are not-for-profit organisations which exist to provide safe, competitive and fair financial services. Unlike banks and other financial institutions which exist to make money for their shareholders, any surplus funds within the credit union are returned to the members in the form of dividends on savings, competitive rates on loans and new and improved services.
Until recently, membership of Scotwest was only open to employees of partner organisations such as local Councils and Colleges of Further Education. However, thanks to the current members voting to amend the rules, now anyone in the West of Scotland can join and benefit from their services.
Rod Ashley, chief executive of Scotwest Credit Union said: "We are delighted that Iain has decided to open up a current account with Scotwest. As the 100th member this is a fantastic milestone to have reached in such a short period of time.
"We are delighted with the success generated by our current accounts. With the ongoing financial crisis hitting the headlines I hope that we are able to provide more people with our services to ensure that they are able to look after their money securely."