STUFFED into sleeping bags and surrounded by cardboard Winchester has raised nearly £20,000 for the city’s homeless.

The Big Sleep Out – hosted by charity Trinity – saw around 150 people come together at the Cathedral for the fundraising event to enjoy some live music as well as find out more about what it’s like sleeping rough.

Though there were fewer participants than originally expected the charity said it was still a relatively good turn-out considering the unfortunately damp weather, and local residents and workers alike raised £18,000 so far.

The final count has yet to be completed but the homeless charity representatives know whatever money comes in it will all be in the right direction.

Peter North, chairman of Trustees at Trinity Winchester, said during his welcome speech: “We cannot begin to imagine the reality of rough sleeping. Tonight is a fun event, aimed at raising money for local charities. We do not have to lie in fear for our safety tonight, as many of the people sleeping rough on the streets of Winchester do.”

Trinity staff were joined by the outgoing Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Eileen Berry, as well as employees from both the Holiday Inn at Morn Hill and city-based estate agents Belgarum – who selected Trinity as its charity of the year.

Nicki Smith, vice chair of the Trustees, who also participated, said: “All at Trinity are so grateful to the people who braved the elements and slept out to support homeless and other vulnerable people. The blustery, wet weather made sleeping virtually impossible and I was grateful to get home, hit the shower and snuggle into bed for a couple of hours. The experience gave me an uncomfortable glimpse into the plight of a homeless person. Thank you to all who took part.”

Boxed Beaus team member Caroline added: “I feel we barely scratched the surface of what it feels like to be homeless and sleep rough. We had weeks to prepare, were watched over night and therefore safe. We had money in our pockets and mobile phones to stay in touch with family. We had food in our bellies and knowledge that this was for one night only. I don’t know how these lost souls brave the days and nights one after the other in all the elements. I know I could not have done a second night in a row.”