STAFF from Wirral-based company Typhoo Tea have visited the YMCA shelter in Birkenhead to praise staff for their outstanding work in the field of care and rehabilitation.

They also presented the shelter with 4,800 free teabags and six months' supply of recyclable hot drinks cups to keep rough sleepers comforted and warm over the coming Winter months.

The donation was spurred in response to an appeal from the YMCA to help raise awareness for the shelter and draw light to the plea of those less fortunate who may have found themselves homeless and sleeping rough on the streets of Wirral.

YMCA's chief executive, Nigel Hughes, said: "I really cannot thank the team at Typhoo enough for their wonderful gesture and kindness in helping people who have so little enjoy a bit of the Christmas spirit that is so lacking in their lives today.

"It was quite humbling for us that a world class manufacturer would not only make such a kind donation but also spare the time for some of its senior staff to come along and meet the people we work with and find out more about what we do."

In a statement, Typhoo said: "We are taken aback by the appreciation from those at the YMCA and comforted that such a simple donation of something as 'everyday' as a cup of tea can make such a difference."

The Wirral Overnight Refuge for Rough Sleepers initiative has been used more than 1700 times this yeafr by a wide range of people, both male and female, who have found themselves on the streets for a variety of reasons.

It is currently organising a full Christmas Day meal for those in need, but would welcome any donations either funds or food which would help them over this busy period.