Blackpool's homeless should be feeling the warmth this summer after the resort secured £20,000 in government cash to open a new night shelter.

The funding has been offered to Blackpool Council after the authority impressed Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) officials with its current 'winter nights' homeless provision during a recent visit.

In addition to the cash, ODPM officials are also in contact with the resort's Salvation Army in a bid to establish a training centre of excellence for single homeless people as part of the highly commended 'Bridge Project'.

It is hoped the new summer shelter will benefit people of all ages and backgrounds including families, younger people and the over 25s.

Blackpool Council's Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Health, Cllr Sue Wright said: "We are committed to helping all our residents and one of our priorities is to assist Vulnerable Adults in the town.

"The shelter will form part of the Government's Improving Hostels Building Places of Change' programme and will follow on from the excellent work done by the homeless and rough sleeping team."