MORE than 40 people braved the cold grounds of a Hereford car park to raise more than £9,000 for an organisation supporting young homeless people in the county.

Those who slept out last weekend included members of the clergy, parliamentary candidates, Rotary Club members and members of staff from SHYPP – the charity which funds were raised for.

Pubs, cafes and businesses from around the city donated food and money to the cause.

Alicia Lawrence, head of SHYPP, said: "We want to say a massive thank you to all that took part and also all those who sponsored people or donated to SHYPP through one of our pub collections on the night.

"The BBC were also filming us all during the night for a documentary ‘A Vicar's Life’ following local curate Father Matthew who was also sleeping out. This is due to be aired in the spring.

"Our sleepers might not have had much sleep and we did have some rain during the night but we were very fortunate to be able to go home to a hot shower and a warm bed the next day.

"Some young people don’t have that choice and through the money raised SHYPP will be able to continue working with young people at risk of homelessness across Herefordshire providing accommodation and housing advice."

Lucy Hurds who took part in the sleep-out added: "Thank you SHYPP for an amazing experience. It was great to spend time with such a wonderful group of people. Congratulations on your event."

Anyone still wishing to donate can go to https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/alicialawrence2