THE Mayor of Winchester is taking on the challenge of sleeping outside for the night to raise funds for the homeless.

Councillor Jane Rutter will take part in the Fifth Big Sleep Out for Trinity Winchester on May 5, with just a sleeping bag and cardboard to keep warm and dry.

She will join people from companies, churches and schools in the Inner Close.

Trinity Winchester provides day-to-day support for around 50 people every day.

Cllr Rutter said: “I am delighted to be a part of this event. Homelessness is an issue very close to my heart, and I am keen to help people who have fallen on hard times.

“The Big Sleep Out is not an experience of being homeless, as we can’t pretend to understand what that is like, but it gets people thinking and fundraising, and every penny will be used by Trinity to help people to better their situation.”

She added: “I would encourage people to join in the Big Sleep Out. It is an eye opening experience, and the money raised will help some of the most disadvantaged people in our community.”

Trinity operations director Sue McKenna said: “This is the fifth Big Sleep Out that we have held, and we are so grateful to the Dean and Chapter of Winchester Cathedral for generously hosting once again.”

Register at: www.trinitywinchester.org.uk/bigsleepout. The cost is £10. and costs £10, which includes Big Sleep Out beanie hat.