A PROJECT providing shelter and support for homeless people was being launched in Harrogate today.

Shelter To Assist Rough Sleepers (STARS), which offers a warm place to sleep, a hot meal, showering and laundry facilities and other support, will be based at the Springboard Day Centre at Wesley Chapel House in Harrogate.

The project, which is run by the Harrogate Homeless Project, with funding from Harrogate Borough Council, local churches and community groups, will stay open, seven nights a week until March, from 9.30pm until 7.30am.

Liz Hancock, manager of the Harrogate Homeless Project, said the new facility was vital because the homeless hostel in Bower Street was running at capacity. To volunteer or donate to the STARS project, phone Liz Hancock on 01423 566900.