A NEW hostel for homeless veterans was officially opened in Egremont yesterday (weds).

Calderwood House, which was converted from the town's former police station, offers rooms for 11 residents who will move in within the next few weeks. Priority will be given to ex-military personnel.

The hostel - which has created 10 new jobs - also offers ensuite bathrooms as well as a large hub area, a kitchen and a laundry room. 

It has been developed by Time to Change who received the building from police and crime commissioner Richard Rhodes on a 25-year-lease.

The project, which has a peppercorn rent of £1 per year, also secured £130,000 of Home Office innovation funding.

Rachel Holliday, director and project manager, said: "It is important to remember that Calderwood House is emergency accommodation designed to provide temporary support. 

"We will give people the opportunity to gain the skills, confidence and support that will help them get into work and move on to independent accommodation within six months."

Police and crime commissioner Richard Rhodes said: "I am hugely impressed with the transformation.

"When I was elected I wanted to help veterans that were coming out of the armed forces with no job and no contact with their family so ending up homeless."

He added: "They are more likely to commit crime in this situation and it is my job to prevent crime."

Reverend Peter Turnbull, of Cleator Moor, chairman of Time to Change, said: "There is a need for hostel space for homeless people unfortunately. It is important because we are trying to change people's lives and give them another chance by increasing their skills so they can move on into a job."

Copeland mayor, Mike Starkie, said: "It's fantastic. It's a really important thing to do and what Rachel has achieved in the face of opposition is impressive."

Calderwood House will be staffed 24/7 and residents are not allowed drugs and alcohol.

Rachel added: "I am absolutely overwhelmed at the turnout, I’d like to thank all sponsors, supporters and volunteers for helping us to do the right thing."