A HOMELESS couple had to buy a new tent yesterday after a borrowed one they have lived in for ten weeks was damaged by stormy weather..

Kevin and Susan Howe have been camping on the banks of the River Tees at Barnard Castle, County Durham, after being evicted from a house for rent arrears.

But the large tent loaned by a friend started letting in rain, so they bought a new one for £9.99.

Mr Howe, 45, a former soldier, said: "We were grateful for the old tent, but after poor weather lately the wind and rain began to come straight through it. The owner has told us to ditch it.

"The new one is designed for short camping holidays rather than full-time living, but we will have to make do with it until we can find a property."

The couple were evicted from their Home Housing Association semi in Zetland, Road, Barnard Castle, for £2,500 arrears.

They said they thought the rent would be covered by housing benefit, but it was eventually refused.

Mrs Howe said: "Camping on a riverbank for a few days in good weather can be pleasant, but weeks of it in wind and rain are terrible.

"We have started paying off the arrears and are talking to social workers, so I hope we get somewhere soon. We are becoming desperate."

Teesdale District Council, which gave the couple a temporary home for a short time after the eviction, has promised to try to help them.

Geoff Proudlock, the council's senior housing manager, said yesterday. "This is now a private matter between the couple and council, so I can make no comment at the moment."