SWINDON'S homeless people will get more than they bargained for when they visit the Christmas Cares drop-in centre over the festive period.

As well as a roof over their heads, some food and a change of clothes, visitors will be met by a group of beauty therapists offering free treatments.

Massage therapist Deborah Donohoe said: "This is a wonderful opportunity to give something special to people who would not normally feel the health and personal well-being benefits of these treatments.

"We all want to make a difference to the lives of each individual, many of whom are unseen and often untouched.

"In giving our time, care and treatments we are hoping to bring a message of love and compassion, allowing each person to feel valued, increasing their self-worth and receiving some precious time for each to feel special."

Deborah and Lena Bates will be offering massage therapy, Jackie Habgood will provide reflexology treatment, Trish Rawlings will be giving facials, Sarah Donohoe will offer manicures and Dee De Sa will be providing eyebrow shaping.

The group decided to do something after Trish met a homeless person who managed to get his life back on track.

Trish said: "Christmas is a happy time for lots of people but it's also a sad and lonely time for some. I am happy to give my time to others and give them the pampering they deserve."

Christmas Cares provides hot food, clean clothes, showers and warm beds from 4pm on Christmas Eve until December 28 for people living on Swindon's streets.

The Methodist Church Hall on Queen's Drive will be open 24 hours a day over the Christmas period.

Betty Spence, from Christmas Cares, said: "We normally have a hairdresser too, but we haven't got one this year and it is nice for them to be able to get a trim and feel better about themselves.

"Obviously we insist people who want their hair and toes and things done have a shower first. But most people want one anyway.

"They can have as many hot showers as they like while they're here.

"It makes them feel a bit better about themselves and anything anyone can offer is really gratefully received."

Hairdressers, chiropodists, entertainers or anyone else who can spare a few hours over the festive period are urged to call the church hall on 01793 433819, or Betty on 01793 485483.