Police and homeless match up in football tournament

A football team made up of homeless people will be playing against police officers in Suffolk.

Ipswich Central Safer Neighbourhood Team has organised a five-a-side tournament at the city's YMCA in Wellington Street, on Friday.

A police spokeswoman said the event was to give people who would be spending Christmas Day on the streets, a "safe and fun environment".

Food, drink and toiletries have been donated by businesses.

Housing agencies Anglia Care Trust, Health Outreach Project, YMCA, Ipswich Housing Action Group and Ipswich Borough Council will also be taking part in the tournament.

Police Community Support Officer Shani Plumb said: "Most of us will spend this Christmas indulging and enjoying ourselves with family and friends.

"But there are members of our community who will be alone and spending their nights on the streets.

"This is our opportunity to provide them with a fun event with food and drink, as well as an opportunity to seek help and advice on the support services available to them."