Business leaders sleep in replica trenches in Kent

A Kent-based veterans' charity is set to host a sleep-out for business leaders in replica World War One trenches.

The Great Tommy Sleep Out supports Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) work with homeless veterans.

On Thursday, as part of the UK-wide event, the sixth annual Chairman's Sleep Out will host more than 80 senior managers from major businesses for the first time in specially-constructed trenches at Detling Showground.

A RBLI spokesperson said they will "spend a night under the stars in support of those who have served their country but who later in life can find themselves without a home".

The Great Tommy Sleep Out raised £1.2m in 2024 and won Fundraising Campaign of the Year at the Third Sector Awards.

RBLI said it was encouraging "more people than ever" to take part in 2025 and hopes this year's event will be its "biggest and best yet".

The charity said it was targeting a figure of £80,000 from the trenches event in Kent alone.

Steve Rowbotham, RBLI chairperson, said: "The Great Tommy Sleep Out is a time when we send a message of unity to those who have served our nation.

"We hope to raise awareness of the serious national issue of veteran homelessness, and play our part in giving something back."

RBLI's wide range of services includes providing housing, welfare and employment support for Armed Forces veterans.

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