LETTER: Article featured '˜spongers'

I understand at least one local ‘homeless person’ has a flat which was fully kitted out by a charity shop, whose volunteers sorted out his rent to be paid direct to his landlord.

This person chooses to live like this and take advantage of handouts.

The article fails to address the habitual ‘spongers’ portraying as homeless on a Friday and Saturday night taking up residence in the doorways of the Winding Wheel often bringing a canine accomplice to attract the attention of revellers under the influence of alcohol.

Henry Oates

Harehill Road,

Grangewood, Chesterfield

Editor’s note: Our piece was prompted by the obvious rising number of people living rough - an issue repeated right across the UK. We quoted one person who acknowledged he had been offered accommodation, but said this isn’t always permanent or appropriate. Whilst a few people may take advantage of the good nature of others, homelessness is real and an important social issue.