A GOOD Samaritan has come forward to ensure that there will be a place at the inn for the homeless this Christmas.

Christmas shelter organiser, Tony Hennesey, said he was delighted and relieved that they had found a suitable venue at last.

"The people of Lancaster have never let us down before and they've come good again," he said.

St Thomas' Church has agreed to let the homeless stay at their Marton Street centre over the festive period.

Tony described the venue as "perfect" and was pleased that they will be able to offer a full service.

"I'm over the moon and very relieved that I can now face the people who use the centre and tell them that we have somewhere for them to stay at Christmas," he said.

"We were also approached by a couple of other churches and I'd like to say thank you to everyone who offered us help. Now we have St Thomas' it's a case of getting everything else in place. We could do with more volunteers, especially as its going to be a full, 24 hour service."

The charity is also looking for sleeping bags, tinned food and cash donations.

"We will appreciate any help anyone can offer us," added Tony.

To offer support call Homeless Action on 842008.