A HOMELESS man who was 'forced to live in a tent' has finally been rehomed thanks to the efforts of a voluntary group.

Volunteers from The Salvation Army have helped 38-year-old Kevin Allen find temporary accommodation after spending more than a month on the streets.

Salvation Army Captain Martin Davison helped Mr Allen engage with the council and secure council accommodation in Low White Close, Ormsgill.

He said: "When I first met Kevin, he seemed like he had experienced a lot of challenges in life.

"He was in a state where he didn't feel loved or accepted.

"The world had rejected him and he felt as if it was all his fault.

"We stepped in and told him there is light in the darkness and there are people who still care for him."

Mr Allen had previously been living in a tent behind the Dock Museum on Walney.

After approaching the Salvation Army, he vowed to turn his life around and sought the help of the community.

Captain Davison said the transformation in Mr Allen has been 'remarkable'.

"The role I have is an absolute privilege.

"To be able to see the transformation first-hand in people's lives and go on to gain full-time employment is so rewarding.

"In the future, Kevin could volunteer with us and go on to gain a full-time job.

"Kevin has such a charming personality, I can see him working in a customer service role.

"He has a real charm about him and still has a smile about him after everything he's been through which is remarkable."

The Salvation Army has helped provide Mr Allen with an array of furniture for his new flat.

"I think a house is the first step of getting back on your feet", Mr Davison said.

"It gives people a sense of responsibility and independence which help people progress onto the next stage which is employment.

"It's the most rewarding job role for us."

If you would like to make a donation, visit The Salvation Army premises on Abbey Road.