Canterbury City Council bosses are urging everyone to help rough sleepers enjoy a night of shelter away from the cold.

Authority leader Simon Cook is calling on every passersby or anyone who knows of a homeless person to make them aware of the authorities emergency shelter scheme.

Last night, 14 rough sleepers used the council's severe weather emergency protocol - meaning they spent the night at a bed and breakfast or in temporary housing.

Cllr Cook said: "Not a great amount of people accessed them last night.

"There are about an estimated 70 homeless people in the area - that means there are more out there which need our service.

"There is no reason for anybody to be out on the streets during any time of the year, but especially not in temperatures like these.

"We can't force people to take shelter but we would like it if they did.

"I urge everyone to tell us about someone who needs to be supported."

To let the council know of a homeless person in need, visit www2.canterbury.gov.uk/swep.