BE the Good Samaritan, urged Bradford West MP George Galloway as he helped highlight the plight of the homeless.

Mr Galloway was one of many politicians, celebrities and business people who gave up an hour to sell the Big Issue magazine on street corners across Britain.

And wrapped up against the winter cold, but with tinted glasses due to the glaring sunshine on Saturday, he took his pitch beside Waterstones bookshop where he received a warm welcome from passers by.

"My message would be, we are standing here in the sunshine, but when you see someone selling the Big Issue in usually much less clement weather - don't just pass on the other side, please be the Good Samaritan," Mr Galloway said.

"The idea that in this age in the world's sixth largest economy, people have to stand in the rain, selling magazines to try to get a roof over their heads is actually a disgrace."

Fresh from a chilly reception in Finchley, North London where he was heckled during an appearance on BBC's Question Time, he declared himself glad to be in Bradford.

"It's much more hospitable," said the Respect MP, as another wellwisher asked for a "selfie" with him.

The VendorWeek Big Sell event was organised by the International Network of Street Papers and Fay Selvan, chairman of The Big Issue in the North said they had been delighted by the level of support.

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