Homeless charity warns it may close over costs

Staff and volunteers said they would be "devastated" if the centre closed

A Merseyside homelessness charity has said it faces "imminent closure" due to a "perfect storm" of increased energy bills, wage costs and rent.

Teardrops in St Helens helps rough sleepers by providing hot meals, clothing and advice.

General manager Nick Dyer, who has worked at the centre for six years, said he was "devastated" at the thought of letting people down.

"It's not a livelihood, it's my life. I work for the people," he said.

Nick Dyer (R) said the centre had helped 5,000 people in the last 12 months

The charity, which helps about 300 local families every month, has appealed to the wider public for help in raising funds.

"In the last 12 months we've supported over 5,000 people with hot meals, drink, toiletries and clothes," Mr Dyer said.

"Everything you can think of to restore someone's dignity and to make them feel like they are a person again."

He said the centre in Crab Street in the town, which also provides local schools with food and uniform for children in need, was "desperate" for funding.

"I'm contracted to 37 hours a week and I put in 60 to 70," he said.

"All my team want to help people, that's all we ever wanted to do. To not be able to do that or feel like we've failed in something is more than devastating."