A homeless refuge in Hounslow has issued an urgent plea for clothes to help keep rough sleepers warm this winter.

The Olive Branch, at Holy Trinity Church, in Hounslow High Street, provides showers, hot food and company every Saturday to those without a roof over their heads.

The shelter project also offers a change of clothing, toiletries and bedding, but it is desperate for more donations, especially as the cold begins to bite.

Volunteer Colin Windsor said it was particularly looking for men's clothes, including jeans or other sturdy trousers, underwear, shirts and warm jackets.

He added that some past donations, although made with the best of intentions, had been unsuitable, like suits or flimsy designer wear.

The Olive Branch, which opened two years ago, is run by volunteers from Holy Trinity, Hounslow Evangelical Church, St John's Mar Thoma Church and Mission in Hounslow Trust.

It is growing in popularity, with more than 30 homeless people regularly turning up on a Saturday afternoon, when it is open from 4pm-6pm.

* If you would like to make a donation, call Lilian Hull on 07899 652176 to arrange a drop-off point.