MANY of us quietly despair over the seemingly ever-growing number of homeless people living on our streets.

But while some may feel powerless in the face of a problem that has been labelled an ‘epidemic’ the boss of a Bolton business consultancy firm was determined to help.

Dave Thornton, managing director of Thornton and Lowe, in Higher Bridge Street, hit upon the idea of distributing a bag of supplies after noticing a ‘visible increase’ in the number of homeless people in Bolton town centre.

And with winter approaching and temperatures dropping, he felt the situation was becoming more and more urgent.

Together wife Cassie he put together individual supply bags which include a warm jumper, warm socks, biscuits, energy bars and £10 towards anything the homeless person may need.

The bags also include dog food for those with canine companions.

And with the help of his colleagues at Thornton and Lowe, the bags were handed out to homeless people across the town centre.

Mr Thornton said he had been ‘shocked’ by the number of homeless people in Bolton.

He said: “It certainly does seem lot more prominent now and from both sexes and all ages, which has been quite shocking.

“I have personally noticed a difference in the last two or three years in Bolton, working from our office In Higher Bridge Street. “

But while many will hurry on past a homeless person or rough sleeper, Mr Thornton said he felt compelled to help the less fortunate.

“We just wanted to do something,” he said. “It’s a small gesture ultimately but even if it made a difference for a day, two days for them it would be well worth it.

“Some time ago I worked at a homeless hostel and you quickly realise how easily it can happen to someone and no-one is immune. “

And his determination to help some of the most vulnerable people in the town was shared by his colleagues at Thornton and Lowe.

He added: “They all gathered together to help and were very keen. Each of them made a positive difference to someone and for that I'm very pleased.

“People seem more aware of their social responsibility now and I hope this means more support is available to those who need it

“We were not sure what type of reaction we would get but they were all so very appreciative - shaking ours hands and wishing us all the best.

“And one guy, who we see quite a lot now as we walk into town, will always say hello and thank us again, which is unbelievable really for what seemed like such a small gesture.”

And he hopes that other businesses may take inspiration from their example.

He said: “We are all very proud and it was a nice thing to do. We are a small company but we think if getting the story will convince a few other local businesses to do the same it could really grow. We can rally a few other local businesses, anyone interest, and do the same and other similar initiatives.”