Woolwich Loan - unfair charge??

mrs_skint

Hi all

I wonder could someone give me a bit of advice before I pay this charge.

I took out a personal loan with the Woolwich about three and a half years ago. Last year I was made redundant and found it impossible to pay all my bills. I ended up remortgaging and using the money to pay off creditors. However, there wasn't quite enough to pay it all off so I entered into an agreement with the Woolwich and had my monthly payment reduced. In the meantime I found another job so things were a bit better. I did notice after a couple of months!! (Mrs observant - NOT!) that the Woolwich hadn't actually changed my monthly payments and that I was still paying the same amount. However, as I had cleared off most of my bills and was now working I thought to hell with it let's just get it paid off!

A few weeks ago I received a letter from the Woolwich with a Statement of Overdue Account! They are charging me £68.14 overdue amount. I checked with my bank and although my direct debit was never cancelled, the Woolwich hadn't called for the money since January!! (I know, I know, 4 mths ago!). Anyway, I sent them a snotty letter back saying that I refused to pay for their admin. errors and that it was up to them to call for their direct debit each month, but they are still trying to charge me and keep leaving messages on my 'phone.

I have offered to set up a standing order for the amount that we agreed on last year, as I don't trust them to do anything! They have ignored this and still say it is my responsibility.

Please please does anyone know what the heck is going on here?? Any advice would be very very welcomed.