EVESHAM folk fear a man living rough on the town's streets could freeze to death this winter if he is left to fend for himself.

Fred Jacques, in his mid-50's, is to be seen every day begging on the streets and pushing an old bike.

His clothes are flimsy and filthy and at night he curls under trees, in sheds, or derelict buildings to keep warm.

Traders are increasingly worried about his state of mind and vulnerability.

Newsagent, Alan Morrison, from Team News, High Street, said: "He's in a dreadful state. We feel sorry for him but cannot allow him in the shop for hygienic reasons.

"I have tried ringing everyone I can think of to get him help, including the police, but he's still roaming the streets. Some authority somewhere must take notice."

Angela Goodall, from Greenhill, has known Mr Jacques for about 20 years but has never seen him looking so pitiful.

She said: " He's slept in my garage from time to time and I've given him money and fed him. He's spent some time living in a Worcester hostel, but he keeps coming back on the streets."

Police beat manager, Tom Iddon, said: "We are also concerned about this man's welfare. We arrested him for vagrancy last week and he appeared at Droitwich court but, although magistrates found him guilty, they gave him an unconditional discharge and he was back on the streets."

Worcestershire County Council spokesman, Kevin Galloway, said: "Social Services are working with police to see what can be done. It is a difficult situation in that we cannot force the care upon him."

Mr Jacques told the Journal he was trying to find somewhere to live."