The chancellor of the exchequer has launched a new package aimed at helping mortgage borrowers who may be facing difficult times financially.

A £10 million package has been put together to offer support and advice to borrowers.

A large chunk of the money will go towards making free debt advice more widely available, with face-to-face meetings top of the agenda.

Extra training will be given to Citizens Advice staff and access to free legal representation will also be made easier.

"It is clear from speaking to consumer groups and the mortgage industry that borrowers may be concerned about the impact of the current market conditions on their mortgages," said Alistair Darling.

"That is why it is vital that the government, working with industry, offers as much support as possible both directly to those people and to the consumer advice groups who can help them in their day-to-day lives," he added.