RURAL homelessness is nothing new to volunteers who work with rough sleepers in Devizes.

They believe the number of people without a home in the town is far greater than that counted in a national survey carried out in November and that in winter months many are hidden from view as they manage to get a temporary bed by sofa surfing or staying in a hostel.

In Devizes the charity Opendoors is desperate to get a night shelter opened so it can do more than offer a drop in service to those in need.

Rachael Ross, who is a trustee of the group, said: "We are open four days each week and we regularly see between 18 and 27 guests who attend each session.

"They are homeless, sleeping rough or living on dilapidated boats and caravans, sofa surfers or are staying in a hostel or other supported housing.

"At any one time in the last few months we have had around 30 people on our books. The official survey showed only two or three people sleeping rough in Devizes but we know it is much higher."

But the dream of opening a shelter has suffered a major setback despite the charity raising enough funds. Ms Ross said: "We were disappointed not to be able to launch the night shelter this year. Sadly we were unable to find a suitable venue in Devizes due to some local hostility in t he area.

"We remain undaunted and plan to do some early work to build better support and understanding with neighbours."

Wiltshire Council money that could have been spent in Devizes went instead to Trowbridge and Salisbury and £10,000 had to be returned to the National Lottery.

Ms Ross said: "We will have to wait and re-apply once we have found a new venue."

Those who gathered at the Parish Rooms next to St John's Church express their gratitude to Opendoors, which opens four days a week, for providing hot food, showers, clean clothes, bedding and the use of a mobile phone and laptop to contact other services.

A laundry service and professional advice from outreach workers and a homeless prevention housing officer is also available.

Among those who shared their story with the Gazette was Aaron, 36, who is often seen around town with his dog Patch.

He moved to Bromham as a boy but found school tough as his ADHD went undiagnosed and also spent time in care.

He said: "I have slept rough a lot. I tis horrible and freezing but Patch is like a hot water bottle for me. I have suffered violence in the past but it is mainly verbal."

Connor Sissins, 21, is hoping his life is about to take a turn for the better and thanks to support from Opendoors is hopeful of getting a flat with his girlfriend.

He admits he got into trouble at school but now realises that was probably also caused by anxiety because of his ADHD.

He became homeless at 16 and slept on t he streets in Melksham and Calne. He said: "I would love to get a job. But I need something hands on that doesn't involve working in a team."

His girlfriend Shannon Bradfield, 23, who grew up in Devizes had her baby daughter taken from her but says it was for the best. She said: "I couldn't give her the life her new family can. But I get to see her once a year."