A GYM-OWNER who gave tents and camping equipment to homeless people was met with both praise and criticism.

Sam Levett gave the items out on Tuesday as part of his new charity, Tent 4 the Homeless, which he started after meeting several homeless people in Brighton on a night out, but some people were unhappy with his actions.

One Argus reader commented: “It just goes from bad to worse, a person who doesn't even live in Brighton gives tents to people who don't come from Brighton so that they can live illegally on the streets of Brighton.

“The looney left will no doubt applaud this as a victory for the drink and drug addled miscreant population.”

Another added: “This is setting the bar low. It's not giving help or hope to rough sleepers and, by keeping them on the street, it’s significantly lowering their life expectancy.

“Please give to established charities that put people in proper accommodation and put them in touch with services that can help.”

But, Sam’s actions also drew a positive response, particularly on social media.

Steve Hunt said: “This has made my day. I was homeless for two years and some people don't understand what it’s like, a tent can not only keep you warm from this horrible weather but also makes you feel safe.

“Well done Sam, I'm glad there are people out there like yourself and I hope you have a merry Christmas, because you are the sort of person that brings joy to the people that need it the most.”

Zoe Donegan also commented, and said: “ I saw this man as I passed on the bus and I’m glad to see this in the paper.

“I thought this was what he was doing, and I wish I got off to say, “what a lovely thing”.

“Sam, if you're reading comments, this is a lovely thing and I hope your generosity is spreading to others, especially at this time of year.”

Sam also responded to the feedback.

The 29-year-old said: “For me, knowing that the people in the tents are going to be getting a nice, dry, comfortable night’s sleep is enough.

“People commenting need to keep themselves to themselves, they can’t imagine what it’s like to be homeless.

“The tents are not going to be set up until the evening, that’s what they have said, and they only pitch them in areas off the main streets.

“I’m not trying to teach them to suck eggs, but I wanted to meet and get to know them so that maybe I can help them turn their lives around a bit.”