Elderly woman spotted sleeping in her car as Britain endures cold snap

As Britain continues to be gripped by some of the coldest temperatures this year, one brave pensioner was spotted enduring the icy climes as she slept in her car overnight.

The 66-year-old woman, who is only known as Susan, has been living in a Gloucestershire lay-by for more than a week.

But while both the police and social services have been informed of her squalid situation, Susan insists that she is fine, and claims to be waiting for a mooring for the house boat that she currently has in storage in Portsmouth.

It’s now believed that Susan now plans to leave tomorrow when she receives her pension money to buy fuel, but she has been inundated with offers from local well-wishers.

A couple who own a local cafe have offered her food and drink, and she has also been offered their facilities to wash.

But they contacted social services after becoming concerned over the woman’s behaviour, having reportedly seen her washing council signs.

However, Susan now says that she feels ‘perfectly safe’.

‘I’ve been here for about six days’, she said. ‘Where ever I can get a mooring, that’s where I’m going to live. I’m trying to get in somewhere before Christmas.

‘I’m moving. That’s all. I’m absolutely fine. I’ve never known such a fuss.’

A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Council said: ‘We’re aware of this lady’s situation and our officers our out talking to her to determine if there is any support that she needs, either from us or our partners.’

A police spokeswoman added: ‘An officer spoke to the lady at length. Our officer offered to help her find a place to stay but the lady declined our help and said she wishes to stay with her vehicle. She was in good spirits and didn’t present any concerns to the officer.

‘The officer later sourced a food voucher and arranged a food parcel to be taken to the lady.’