DONATIONS of warm clothing are desperately needed for Colchester’s homeless.

Colchester Emergency Night Shelter needs old coats, hats and thick jumpers for people who are on the streets in the freezing conditions.

It is also seeking help with its winter reserve accommodation project, which sees homeless people put up in venues such as church halls when the night shelter is full.

Co-ordinator Pernille Petersen said: "We desperately need volunteers.

"They have to agree to be at a venue from 10.30pm to 7.30am, together with another volunteer.

"All the other services are provided by the night shelter."

The night shelter is nearly full, with just two spaces available yesterday. Mrs Petersen said she expected the last slots would soon be taken.

She said they might already have been filled, but the harsh conditions were making it difficult for homeless support charities to transport people there.

It is hoped the night shelter will be able to open earlier in the evening at the weekend if the snow continues.

Mrs Petersen said: "On working days there are other projects people can go to during the day.

"At weekends, we open earlier and we will try to open earlier than usual tomorrow and Sunday, but it will be difficult."

Donations of clothing can be made to the night shelter at 39-41 Alexandra Road, between Butt Road and Maldon Road.

They can also be taken to Beacon House, on East Hill, which opens to the homeless during the day and offers a nurse-led clinic, showers and laundry facilities.

Call the night shelter on 01206 549885 for details of how to get involved with the winter reserve scheme.