An expectant mother of twins who spent Christmas in a tent has been offered a caravan by a Premier League footballer who saw her plight on the news.

The woman, who is four months pregnant, and her partner are living in a tent next to the River Medway.

After the picture of their makeshift home appeared on KentOnline, their story was picked up by national newspapers.

Volunteer Neil Charlick, who has been helping the couple, said he was inundated by calls on Christmas Day from media organisations as well as people offering to help them.

And West Bromwich Albion star James McClean came forward and offered to buy them a caravan to help them get back on their feet.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder messaged Mr Charlick and said: “Look I know it ain’t much and even if it’s temporary until a house is found, but being a father myself no babies should live homeless so I would be willing to purchase this caravan for them and keep them out of the cold.”

The 27-year-old attached an advert for a £1,750 Swift Corvette caravan for sale in Maidstone to his message.

The couple have been living in the tent for six months and have tried to make it as homely as possible, with carpet, teddies and pictures.

But being next to the river means they are exposed to the harsh winter weather.
Volunteer Neil Charlick said: “They are luckier than some because they do have some protection from the concrete behind them, but they are exposed there on the river.

"They have been there a long time, but they keep themselves to themselves so they don’t get any hassle.”

Mr Charlick is part of a group of volunteers who go out every day to help people on the streets, delivering soup, sleeping bags and clothes.