Ten homeless pods which housed some of the town's most vulnerable rough sleepers last winter are making a welcome return.

The pods will be set up on the grounds of Shadsworth Leisure Centre to accommodate those without a safe place to stay throughout the cold winter months.

The scheme, which was introduced last year as part of the government's winter Protect Programme, is believed to run until March 2022, helping to protect those who use them from the winter elements and the risk of Covid-19.

This year, Blackburn Foodbank will be providing each resident with food parcels, while staff will support those living in the pods with help to find some form of permanent accommodation for spring 2022.

A spokesperson for Blackburn Foodbank said: "This winter, ten pods have returned to Shadsworth Leisure Centre to provide accommodation to some of Blackburn’s rough sleepers.

"All residents of the pods will be in a self-contained unit with communal catering cabins and will be able to access a wide array of support including drug and alcohol services and support to find permanent accommodation.

"Blackburn Foodbank will be providing each resident with food parcels throughout their time in the pods.

"Workers and volunteers at Blackburn Foodbank will work closely with staff and residents to provide personalised food parcels to help the residents feel comfortable and at home in their new spaces."

Last year there was a mixed reaction to the pods, with some residents raising concerns over policing and safety, before being reassured by councillors that there would be security on site to protect the vulnerable people and keep the estate safe.

Despite this, the scheme was generally welcomed by many living in Shadsworth, and the same sentiments have been shared this year.

One person said: "These pods are great. Excellent staff too and great work Blackburn Foodbank. Brilliant as always."

Andrea Bolton said: "What a fantastic scheme."

And Ben Jackson said: "Love to see this."