A HAMPSHIRE group that helps people recover from homelessness celebrated its fifth birthday recently.

Emmaus Hampshire opened in 2009, and has since set about rebuilding the lives of the homeless through engaging them in their local community.

Staff, volunteers, trustees and shoppers celebrated the landmark birthday at its satellite shop in Eastleigh, as well as companions – the name for people who have benefitted from the movement.

Winchester MP Steve Brine also visited, along with his children Emily and William.

In the evening guests enjoyed a hog roast while listening to a Beatles’ Tribute band.