GOOD Samaritans have helped a homeless man get a new flat of his own – and are now helping him apply for a new job.

Steve McGregor was taken in by Wickford man, Duncan English, and his family after he was made homeless and attacked in Wickford Memorial Park earlier this month.

Mr McGregor, 55, suffered severe bruising on most of his limbs, a black left eye a cut to the rear of his head.

Mr English took Mr McGregor into his home and allowed him to sleep in his garage, while also rescuing his bike that had been thrown into the river.

The Echo reported on Mr English’s good deed and the story was also shared across many community groups.

This was seen by John Webb, a 68-year-old, who lives in Shotgate, Wickford, who felt compelled to help and managed to successfully apply for a flat for Mr McGregor near Whitmore Way, Basildon.

Mr McGregor moved into the flat on Monday. A fundraising page to help him has also raised £3,000 so far.

Mr Webb said: “I found the property in what can only be described in record time from start to finish – some eight hours - and it was a done deal.

“It is with great pleasure that we assisted Steve from the streets to a garage to his little flat where he sat today with a very happy smile.

“Duncan has stated it was the Wickford community that in record time allowed this to happen with their generous donations of the all-important money, and not forgetting to mention the new clothes the food parcels the new boots a trainers and dozens of pairs of new warm socks.

“No wonder he smiles gratefully.

“It was residents’ money along with Duncan’s and my own tenacity to make today happen for him.

“We have created a CV for Steve, we have people offering him a chance to work, we have done this in six clear days from my involvement with Duncan last Tuesday.

“To everyone who played their part in making this happen, we say to you all a heartfelt thank you.”

Mr English said: “Steve finally moved into his new room on Monday, 20 days after I had found him in the woods, cold, wet, injured, tired, hungry and homeless.

“The Just Giving page is still running and has raised just over £3,000.”