A ROOFTOP protest was last night entering its fifth day in Winchester.

Simon Murray, 54, pitched a tent on the roof of the drop-in Trinity Centre on Durngate.

Mr Murray, 54, climbed up on Thursday night and slept overnight on the roof of the building which is today closed to other users.

As a result the centre was closed on Friday but reopened yesterday. Trinity chief executive Sue McKenna said: "Yes. we are open today. We work with the most vulnerable – they shouldn't have to suffer any more hardship than they are already enduring."

She said Trinity was considering its legal options: "We are taking advice about any further actions."

Mr Murray said he has issues with the way the centre is being run, saying "it is a just a business, and big business. I don't know how long I will be here. I have the supplies. I'm sure people will bring me things, so it could be a while," he said.

Trinity Winchester has operated in the city for more than 30 years supporting people who are homeless or marginally excluded.

In a statement, Trinity said: "Mr Murray has used our service throughout the winter months, we were able to offer him an emergency cold weather bed for a total of 33 nights, we supported him with travel to some emergency appointments, we funded the purchase of a birth certificate and a driving licence in order to secure an income and employment.

He was supported in securing the offer of a home that he refused as it was "too dusty" upon inspection of the property we found this not to be the case, it was more than adequate housing.

"We have supported over 600 people a year many of whom are vulnerable and in desperate need of housing and support, it is most disappointing that one person has disrupted a vital service and not been able to accept the help that has been given to him."