A new study has shown Watford has been ranked 36th in the top areas for homelessness in the UK.

Shelter has found that more than 300,000 people in Britain are homeless and 675 of those are in Watford.

It was recorded that 662 people are living in temporary accommodation and 13 are sleeping rough.

The figures come ahead of the Imagine Property Group and New Hope’s Big Sleepout event, which will take place in Coningesby Drive, Watford, on Friday November 17.

Sam Weightman, community and events fundraiser at New Hope, said: ‘It is common to see someone sleeping on a bed of cardboard under a thin blanket or sleeping bag on Watford’s streets.

“Watford, like much of the UK, continues to see a rise in the number of people rough sleeping and, as the weather gets colder and rain becomes more likely, it is imperative that we continue to raise awareness of this nationwide crisis and constructive ways people can help.

“The Big Imagine Sleepout is raising crucial funds that will be used to support vulnerable individuals in our town. Almost 200 people have registered to take part, including teams from Imagine, Storm IT, Watford FC NCS and West Herts College, but it’s not too late to get involved by sponsoring those taking part.”

To donate to the Big Sleepout, visit, www.imaginesleepout.com/donate.

To support Shelter’s appeal visit www.shelter.org.uk or text SHELTER to 70080 to donate £3.