CREWE'S Lighthouse Centre is opening its doors on Thursday evenings to offer a safe haven for the homeless.

The Stewart Street shelter will invite those in crisis or at risk of rough sleeping in so they can receive a warm meal, shelter for the evening, access to the washing facilities and breakfast for the following day.

It follows funding from Cheshire's Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane with the cash from the Community Police Fund used to buy food ingredients, toiletries and clothes.

The money will also be used to purchase masks, sanitiser and other items to keep both service users and volunteers safe.

Volunteers at the group will be supporting those struggling with mental health conditions, drug and alcohol-related issues to ensure those living on the edge of society have a place of comfort.

Community groups were encouraged to work alongside their dedicated PCSOs and PCs to make bids to the Community Police Fund, which was set up using money taken from criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

The Rev. David Edwards, from the Lighthouse Centre, said: "We have seen people at the cusp of suicide and we have been able to support them to move forwards and seek the help they need.

"We are here to save lives and this funding is vital to give people hope for tomorrow."

David Keane said: "Homelessness is a big issue in some of the more urban areas of Cheshire. Projects like this are not about judgement, but they look to support people at a time in their lives when they need an arm around them.

"Support like this enables people to break the cycle of living on the streets."