Coldplay help Exeter charity

They agree to music on St Petrock's video

A charity that supports homelessness people in Exeter has had its Christmas appeal boosted thanks to the support of rock giants Coldplay.

The band, led by Exeter boy-done-good Chris Martin, who used to help his family sell caravans near the M5, has given consent for St Petrock’s to use their song Christmas Lights as the soundtrack to a social media video produced free of charge by production company All Told. 
 
The campaign launches as people on low incomes are plunged further into poverty. From discussions with partner agencies and St Petrock’s own observations, the charity estimates the number of rough sleepers on the streets of Exeter has doubled in the past 12 months. 
 
All the people featured in the film are St Petrock’s staff and clients, who have agreed to take part to help the charity raise money for its service.
 
Peter Stephenson, director of St Petrock’s said: “When staff saw the first cut of the film, most of us admitted it brought tears to our eyes. I myself have watched it several times and it still brings a lump to my throat. It’s very emotional for us.

“Being made homeless is a huge psychological and physical shock. Many of the people we support feel very unsafe at night, and assaults on them are all too common. Sleeping rough is extremely difficult at any time of year, but it’s particularly hard for rough sleepers in the winter and in torrential rain like we have had over the past couple of weeks. 
 
“When we decided to make this film, we wanted to give people an insight into what it means to sleep rough, and the work we do on a daily basis. And that meant involving our staff and clients – those who are rough sleeping as well as those in insecure accommodation.
 
“We do what we can to provide the practical and emotional support needed by those in our city with nowhere to call home. We’re often told we’re a lifeline, especially at this time of the year. Christmas can be a very painful time for those who are left outside on Christmas Day while everyone else is celebrating warm inside with their loved ones."
 
Donations to St Petrock’s Christmas campaign can be made at www.StPetrocksChristmas.org.uk