Kind-hearted residents have rallied behind a police community support officer's (PCSO) project to knit hats for rough sleepers.

Brandon Greenleaf, who has only been working in the Thanet Community Safety Unit for a few months, has already launched a project called Hats for the Homeless.

The scheme encourages knitters to pick up their needles and yarn to benefit those sleeping rough.

PCSO Greenlead said: "During one shift, I thought it was so cold outside as I walked through the streets I cover and, having seen the homeless people, I thought it must be so difficult for them.

"I can't provide them with a solution to their issues - there are dedicated agencies who work hard to do that - but I hope these hats can at least provide them with some comfort and warmth.

"I also thought it would be nice to involve residents who could benefit from the activity of knitting or making hats as, during lockdown, it has been a struggle for those who are alone or unable to see loved ones."

He usually walks out on the beat in Ramsgate, so with help from the town council's Maxine Morgan, he was put in contact with people from across Thanet who were willing to get knitting.

His scheme resulted in an enormous community effort - and within two weeks, he was already given 70 hats.

"All of the knitters are either shielding or in care homes, so I wanted to give them a reason to do something they enjoy anyway, and let them know that their skills are invaluable and appreciated," he added.

The hats have now been donated to Thanet RISE, a multi-agency team who work with those who are rough sleeping and in need of support.

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