Rough sleeping event an eye-opener - participants

A homelessness event at Peterborough United's ground has raised more than £15,000.

About 70 people, including former rough sleepers and firefighters, braved the rain to take part in Peterborough's Big Sleep Out, which gives people an insight into what it is like living on the streets.

The event at Posh's London Road stadium raised money for Light Project Peterborough and the Peterborough United Foundation.

Matt Edgley, fundraising officer at Light Project Peterborough, said participants found the event "eye-opening", and he said he felt "proud to see so many people come together for a great cause".

Light Project Peterborough has been supporting rough sleepers across the city since 2015 and runs The Garden House, a day respite centre offering support and advice.

Roy Stubbs, who now works at Boroughbury Medical Centre, was helped by the project when he was sleeping rough.

He said he wanted to "raise awareness of being homeless and to raise funds for a very worthy cause".

Mr Edgley said the event went well despite the rain during the middle of the night, which led to a few people moving inside.

He added: "I'm really proud that we had another successful Big Sleep Out event. The cold conditions made the experience an eye-opening one for many – especially those who braved it outside in the rain.

"It was wonderful to see so many new faces participating this year. I just want to say a big thank-you to everyone who took part and those who donated."

Participants were treated to a live performance by local band Krispy Cod and were given hot drinks and soup.

More than 700 donations have been made so far, with £15,878 raised.

The Peterborough United Foundation provides sporting, exercise, and education programmes.

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