Homeless guests at a night shelter will be able to sleep better thanks to donations to buy new beds.

Gravesham Sanctuary provides a safe space for those who are rough sleeping across Gravesend and neighbouring areas.

The charity saw a 33% increase in the number of guests looking for a bed and a meal with 158 on record last year (up from 118 in 2017/18).

To cope with the rising demand the council-backed provider has launched an appeal for funds.

Thanks to donations from ex-servicemen and a £1,500 donation from Eastgate Church in Northfleet, they will be able to replace their blow-up beds with proper ones for guests to sleep on.

Now in its fifth year, the refuge centre has been offered a facility free of charge by the council and has received a government grant of £11,000.

Sanctuary trustee, Michael Coveney says the shelter still urgently needs more financial assistance to survive the winter.

Michael said: "The main difference is we are moving from three nights to seven. We are also moving from four months to six."

They are currently open five nights a week and are looking for more volunteers so they can do the full seven.

To maintain the facility, feed guests and pay for staff Michael says they need around £5000 a month.

They hope to raise funds for a replacement washing machine and a new microwave to prepare warm meals.

The charity is also looking for donations to buy lockers for volunteers and new tables and chairs.

Visit graveshamsanctuary.uk/donate/

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