A couple face spending Christmas in a tent off Sheerness beach because they have been unable to move into emergency accommodation.

Thomas Cutts, 23, and Suzanne Underdown, 47, have been pitched up near Garrisons Point since October 15 after they were evicted from their rented flat in Sheerness Broadway.

The pair have said they have approached Swale council for help but the local authority, which has had a number of meetings with them, can only provide rooms for them separately.

Mr Cutts said of their situation: “It’s horrible, cold and wet. I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy.

“We’ve been let down by everyone.”

A Swale council spokesman said it is aware of the case and has referred the couple to a specialist housing charity to explore their housing options.

He added: “We do work hard to try to prevent homelessness in the first place, and if anyone is struggling with rent or mortgage arrears, or faces eviction, they can contact our housing options team for advice and assistance.”