A DEVIZES charity is determined to open a hostel for the homeless but fears rough sleepers, who are set to be evicted from woodland in the town, will have nowhere to go for a number of months.

John Saunders from Devizes Opendoor said: "We are working on plans for a hostel but at the moment we are still some way away from getting the funding we need. We have developed a business plan and will hold an official launch in March."

But Devizes Town Council is moving ahead with taking on the lease of Belvedere Woods from the Merchant Venturers and is keen for the woods to be cleared of rough sleepers as soon as possible so it can become a beauty spot for walks and an asset for the town.

Mr Saunders said: "We think there are three in the woods at the moment but as the weather improves people who have been sofa surfing will start to appear again.

"The reality is if they can't go to Belvedere Woods they will find somewhere else."

He hopes that a stop-gap measure could be to set up a night shelter in Devizes using church halls. He said: "To be able to do this we would need volunteers to run it and the co-operation of those who own the buildings. It wouldn't be the same as a hostel but it would be cheaper and quicker to achieve and would at least give people somewhere safe to sleep."

Devizes Opendoor, which was set up six years ago, to provide homeless and vulnerable adults with cooked meals three times a week at St John's Parish Rooms is also about to expand this service to an extra day.

Mr Saunders said: "Volunteers prepare the meals and befriend the 15 to 20 people who come to the sessions. Those sleeping rough do not have anywhere they can relax in a safe, accepting environment to pass the time and talk about how they are getting on.

"So in 2017 Opendoor plans to open on another day of the week to offer additional support, games and creative activities. The aim will be to provide a warm welcome in which to find companionship with others."

New volunteers are needed to help run the extra session. Mr Saunders said: "Volunteers will not need specific skills but they will need to be outgoing, non-judgemental and good listeners." To find out more ring him on 07828 041152.

Opendoor is also to hold a fundraising jumble sale on January 28 at St Andrew's church hall from 10am to 11.30am.