HOMELESSNESS across the UK has risen by nearly 30 per cent in four years, according to a Winchester shelter.

At their AGM Winchester Churches Nightshelter told how homelessness has increased by 26 per cent across the country, with an extra 6,437 people sleeping rough in London – a rise of 75 per cent.

Nightshelter director Miranda Rock said over 112,000 people approached their council as homeless last year.

The meeting saw around 120 people attend to discuss the shelter’s work, which included talks on the emotional, physical, personal and financial cost of homelessness.

The chair of the Nightshelter directors, Paul Montgomery, said: “It’s my pleasure to present this event this evening. First to the chairman of the Hampshire County Council who has made time to join us this evening, then to the team who have put the event together; to all our speakers this evening – I’d like to thank you for all you have done to make people aware of homelessness.

“I also want to say thank you to our wonderful volunteers and supporters, without whom we would not exist.”

Manager Michele Price reminded the audience of the shelter’s recent awards. Earlier this year staff were presented with the High Sheriff Award and the Community Star Award from the University of Winchester.