Alex Hassell, star of recent BBC period drama The Miniaturist, visited HARP, Southend’s Homeless Charity, to show his support for those fighting to overcome homelessness.

The actor, who was born in Leigh, and his wife Emma King, an actress, have been Patrons of HARP since 2016. They recently took a break from their busy schedule to visit the charity and see the work for themselves.

Alex said “HARP are doing such an amazing job and making such a difference and we are so impressed. We can see how important it is that they receive as much support as possible.” Emma added: “I didn’t realise the scale of the services that HARP provide and just how important it is for those people that most need it.”