Sixty homeless people have been given temporary housing to support rough sleepers during the coronavirus outbreak.

Watford’s homeless charity New Hope has launched an emergency appeal to provide further support in feeding the sixty homeless people who now have temporary shelter during the lockdown.

Over the last few weeks, the charity has been working with Watford Council, MP Dean Russell and One YMCA to secure accommodation for those living in the streets.

Many people have been given rooms at the Travelodge hotel on Exchange Road as well as other accommodations.

But now the charity is appealing for further support to provide meals for those accommodated and others still on the street.

Rebecca Palmer, the fundraising and communications manager at New Hope, said: “The many people who were sleeping on the streets of Watford were exceptionally vulnerable – they had no home to ‘stay home’ in.

“It’s vital that we continue to show compassion to those who are homeless in Watford and that’s why we have launched our crisis appeal so that we can provide meals, friendships and support to those who need it.”

On March 27 it was reported that New Hope accommodated 45 rough sleepers in Watford.

Mr Russell previously said: "I am delighted that 45 homeless people will now all have somewhere safe and secure to sleep during this pandemic. Achieving this was a cross-partnership effort and it shows how powerful Watford can be when we work collaboratively.

"Special praise is due to New Hope who every day of year are out helping the homeless in Watford. I was pleased when they called me for help to be able to do my bit."

Anyone willing to donate is asked to visit newhope.org.uk/covid19crisisresponse.