It's a big deal knowing you've got somewhere to get your head down

Hi-tech pods offer lifeline to get people off the street

-  HOLLIE BONE

A VETERAN rough sleeper has laid bare the horrors of surviving on the streets at Christmas.

In 15 years, Mark Griffiths, 58, has slept under railway bridges and in bins.

He has battled pneumonia, been subjected to violent attacks and even seen fellow homeless people set on fire.

At times, he has tried to get arrested, just to have a bed for the night.

"I've smashed a window and just stood there waiting for the police to arrest me and take me to prison so that I had somewhere warm to stay," he said.

Now, thanks to a charity, homeless people like Mark have a better chance of somewhere to rest their heads.

The Salvation Army has just launched a series of homeless pods, known as NapPads, providing the basics of a bed and shelter.