The Chase star Anne Hegerty opens Watford winter shelter

Ms Hegerty, best known as 'The Governess' on hit ITV quiz show The Chase, joined members of homelessness charity New Hope on Saturday (November 16) to open the shelter.

It will aim to provide hot meals and warm beds to anyone who needs them, free of charge.

(Image: Juliette Morrison) Located at The Haven in Whippendell Road and funded by Watford Council, the shelter will provide support every night until March 13.

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Following a funding boost from donations, the shelter will include a new pet-friendly sleeping pod.

The pod will ensure that people with pets, mobility challenges, or those struggling with PTSD will have a safe place to stay during the winter months.

The New Hope shop in Queen's Road. (Image: Google Street View) New Hope has the goal of ending rough sleeping in Watford, particularly during the coldest months of the year.

Ms Hegerty lives in Watford and recently made her acting debut as part of a short film shot in nearby Letchworth.

Active in the community, opening the shelter was not her first involvement with New Hope - she visited their shop in Queen's Road last year to celebrate Easter with staff.