Katrina survivor 'homeless in UK'

Tony Baker returned to the UK after losing everything in the hurricane

A man is facing homelessness on the streets of Kent after losing everything when Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans.

Tony Baker, 45, from Chatham, had just moved into a dream home in New Orleans with his American wife after living in the US for the last four years.

The bus driver, who has a job interview next week, returned to his home town with one suitcase and hardly any cash in the hope he could start a new life.

He has been offered a hotel room by Medway Council, but only until Monday.

Mr Baker returned to the UK on Friday, leaving his wife Gail staying with friends in the US, after deciding it would be the best thing to do for their future.

They were only given 24 hours to grab their belongings and leave their home before the hurricane struck, destroying everything they had.

Tony Baker has only been given somewhere to stay until Monday

He said since arriving back in Chatham he had found problems registering for benefits and a local homeless shelter because of his lack of address.

He was also unable to find a vacant bed and breakfast.

Mr Baker has a job interview on Tuesday.

"Hopefully I shall get the job and start earning some money, and then at least I can get a place," he said.

"I want to stay here - there's nothing in the US for us now.

"If we went back there it would be like starting all over again, like it is here. You have to make a choice. My wife stands a better chance of working here than I do working there."