BRAVE Cumbrians are being called upon to face the elements in The Big Sleep, a mass sleep-out challenge to raise money for vulnerable elderly people this winter.
The initiative already has 162 people signed up to face a night under the stars and so far a whopping £67,000 has been raised for the Winter Warmth Fund, but it is hoped the figure will hit the £100,000 target.
The Cumbria Community Foundation is organising the event that will take place in a field beside the Low Wood Hotel in Windermere this Saturday.
High Sheriff of Cumbria Diana Matthews said: “Having visited many in almshouses during my year in office, I realise that there are a number of people living in fuel poverty.”
All funds will be used to provide support to elderly people suffering because of fuel poverty, and will be directed to those most in need through voluntary and community groups.
Cumbria Community Foundation chief Andy Beeforth said: “We want to raise £100,000 for those facing the choice of heating their homes and or eating a meal. This is a final call for anyone who can raise £100 in sponsorship to join me.”
Details at www.cumbria foundation. org/bigsleep, and to donate www.just giving.com/winterwarmthfund
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