Andrew Tweedy, the older brother of Girls Aloud star Cheryl, is reportedly living in a tent outside a Morrisons supermarket in Jarrow, South Tyneside, and begging for food. The 41-year-old has struggled with addiction for years and has been in and out of prison.
Last month, Tweedy appeared in court for being drunk and disorderly. He was given a six-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £113. He reportedly told officers to 'F*** off' after they were called when he was shouting and swearing at customers.
Despite three stints in rehab, including one funded by Cheryl for £20,000 which he turned down, Tweedy has continued to battle alcohol abuse. He told the court he was receiving hospital treatment and had moved back into the family home, but weeks later was back in his tent. He said: 'I am one of those people that take one step forward and ten steps back.'
Cheryl has previously spoken about her brother's addiction in her autobiography, expressing guilt and sadness. An insider told Heat magazine that she feels 'torn' and was 'knocked sideways' by news of his homelessness. Despite this, the source said she has 'her own life to be getting on with.'
Tweedy, who has a Staffordshire Bull Terrier named Razor, said he has not been contacted by his family and does not blame Cheryl. He stated: 'This is the lowest I've ever been.' The Mirror has contacted Cheryl for comment.
