Funds raised from this year’s YMCA Bournemouth Big Sleep Easy have hit £10,000.

Held at Bournemouth’s Talbot Heath School, more than 35 people from different businesses and organisations built their own temporary shelters and slept under the stars for one night.

Donations up to October 18, including Gift Aid, were £10,700.

The money raised will go to those facing homelessness.

Sheena Dayman, Events Manager at YMCA Bournemouth, said: “It was fantastic to see members of our community come together to raise money for those in need.

“Spirits stayed high despite the challenging weather conditions and thanks to some great shelter craftmanship, everyone stayed dry.

“Homelessness is becoming increasingly prevalent as more and more people face financial pressures amid the cost of living crisis.

“YMCA Bournemouth plays a critical role in directly preventing homelessness by putting roofs over people’s heads, as well as providing personal support and guidance.

“By taking part in the Big Sleep Easy, individuals and organisations support our work to keep people safe from homelessness in the long-term.

“A huge thank you to everyone who took part this year.”

Main sponsor, Lester Aldridge, were involved for the fourth year running, fielding a 14-strong team.

Mark Benham, Partner and Head of Real Estate, pictured left, said: “Our structural engineering and architectural skills have come on leaps and bounds since last year, raising money to support a brilliant charity that makes a significant difference in our community.

“We are already planning for 2023.”

Cool Coffee Cart provided food and refreshments during the evening while Tesco donated bacon, sausage and baps to participants in the morning.

They were cooked and served up by Winton Salvation Army following donations totalling £180 from participants.

Special thanks have been extended to the following sponsors and businesses who supported the event: Lester Aldridge, BizSpace, Lewis Investment, St James Place, Woodstock Legal Services, King Financial Services, Castlepoint, Forerunner Personal Catering, Paul Collins/PC Visuals, Talbot Heath School, Tesco, NatWest, Barclays, ACE Office Environments, Economy Hire, SUEZ and Winton Salvation Army.