A TAUNTON charity that helps homeless people during the day has launched a £250,000 appeal to buy and convert a historic building.

Open Door is appealing to businesses and individuals to help it buy the Memorial School, in Mary Street.

The new premises will offer showers, laundry, hot meals, clothes, shelter, counselling and haircuts.

Open Door, which was founded in 1996, attracts 200 vulnerable people to its current premises in Wood Street, which are no longer adequate.

Beverley Keitch, Open Door trustee, said: "Up to 20 people sleep rough in Taunton every night.

"We seek to give them shelter and support during the day, with emphasis on learning skills for a better life.

"This also helps Taunton as it reduces crime and begging in the streets which, in turn, enhances the town.

"Donations will make it possible for us to provide this much needed service, while improving Taunton for everyone."

Donations for Open Door can be sent to Phillip Bedford, c/o Lentells, 11 The Crescent, Taunton TA1 4EA.