A former newsreader who became homeless after racking up thousands of pounds in credit card debts has received massive support from Argus readers.

Ed Mitchell, 54, was offered accommodation after we reported his story.

Today he was back in front of the camera after recording an exclusive video interview for our website.

Mr Mitchell has also received offers of work and for one week will read the daily video news reports for The Argus website, beginning on Monday.

The Argus was inundated with calls from national newspapers and press agencies wishing to interview Mr Mitchell about his incredible story.

He said: "It's looking hopeful. I've had a lot of calls from newspapers and press agencies. It seems to have struck a chord. A lot of people are interested in me because it is Christmas. Also the fact there is a debt mountain people can obviously relate to my story.

"Doing this story has helped already. I have already been offered accommodation from three different people."

Mr Mitchell began sleeping rough on Hove seafront nine months ago after his credit card debts spiralled out of control.

Only seven years before the father-of-two was earning £100,000 a year as a newsreader for American-owned station CNBC.

But he was forced to borrow more money when he was made redundant from his job and was saddled with a £250,000 debt before he was declared bankrupt two weeks ago.

Mr Mitchell, who lost his home, his wife and all his possessions because of credit card debt, touched the hearts of scores of Argus readers.

The Argus website was overwhelmed with comments from readers offering sympathy to Mr Mitchell and from those with similar debt problems.

Mark Fareham wrote: "What I read about Ed is inspiring. I live in what is considered an affluent area. The reality I expect are neatly kept time bombs filled with anxiety which is heightened at this time of year.

"I have spent many years recovering from debt.

"Sure, we each have a responsibility but debt is a fact of life today sold to us by skilled sales people through multi-media. Ed has found freedom in the most painful way. I found freedom by dealing with it as best I can. There is help for us all, we just need to ask."

Timmy wrote: "This story shows that you never know who the guy is sleeping on the bench. So the next time you pass by one of these rough sleepers know that he too once had dignity."

Gary, from Hove, wrote: "How awful to hear the news that more debt is being created by central banks across the world through loans. The financial and housing markets need correcting. Why doesn't the government stop protecting them and start protecting us?"

  • To find out more about Mr Mitchell's story, see our video report hereand don't miss our morning bulletins read by Mr Mitchell, beginning on Monday.

If you are struggling with debt contact the Citizen's Advice Bureau advice line on 0845 1203710 on Monday, Wednesday or Thursday between 1pm and 4pm or visit them at Hove Town Hall, Monday to Thursday from 9.30am to 11.30am.

Alternatively, contact the Consumer Credit Counselling Service on 0800 138 1111.

Leave your messages of support to Mr Mitchell below.

And don't miss our morning news bulletins on this website next week, all of which will be read by Mr Mitchell.