A homeless man who has set up camp on a bench near a high street says he is “overwhelmed” by the generosity of strangers.

But pointing to the mess from gifts, food and drink, he says he has been given more than he can ever eat and has asked people to stop donating.

The man, who only gave his name as Matthew, began sleeping rough on the patch of land at the bottom of Furzehill Road, Borehamwood, yesterday.

He told the Borehamwood Times he is “nearly 50” and that he arrived on the train from Canterbury, in Kent, but is unable to get home because he had his bag stolen.

Since yesterday, hundreds of people from across the town have been down to visit the man to give him food, drinks and money.

He said: “I just think – wow. The kindness of strangers is amazing. I love everyone I have met and I am elated by all the support and help they’ve given me.

“People have been so nice. I came out here with one bag and now I’m surrounded by so much food and so many drinks.

“To be honest, I am overwhelmed by everyone’s generosity.”

People have donated items including an umbrella to shield him from the rain, a blanket and even a tube of toothpaste, all of which he keeps in a shopping trolley.

Others have left him food, baguettes, burgers, chips, bottles of water and a thermos of tea – most of which is now strewn across the grass.

But despite their generosity he claims he does not want anyone to bring him any more food or drink, or even money.

The authorities, including the police, have visited the man on numerous occasions to offer him help, something he has refused to accept.

He added: “I am a Michelin man – I am self-supportive and I don’t need anyone to look after me. I am okay. Plus, I had the best night’s sleep here last night.

“People can give me money if they want but I don’t need it and I’ve got more food than I could ever eat. I mean, look how much mess there is. It’s mad.

“For now I’m quite happy chilling here. Home is wherever I lay my head.”