MORE than 150 people spent a night under the stars on the shores of Windermere last weekend in order to raise money for people suffering from the cold. 


Campers pitched up tents and wrapped up warm to brave the teeth chattering conditions. They snuggled up in sleeping bags and under duvets as part of the Big Sleep experience.


The event is organised annually by the Cumbria Community Foundation to raise money for its Winter Warmth Appeal.

It supports older people in the county struggling to pay their winter heating and fuel bills.


The appeal has already distributed £120,000 this winter to help older people heat their homes.


Andrew Beeforth, the charity’s chief executive, said: “We couldn’t be happier with the number of people that turned out to support the Big Sleep. Our campers have so far raised more than £15,000 and this money will make a huge difference enabling us to continue our work, helping older people within our community. 


“Extra funding is always great but awareness is even better and we want people to understand what fuel poverty is and how it affects people. The money raised will be used to provide grants to some of the poorest, most vulnerable older people in the county. Thank you to everyone who took part or supported the participants.”

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This year, the refurbishment of the Low Wood Bay Resort Hotel, near Ambleside, gave campers the opportunity to sleep right beside the lake.
Sian Whittlemore, of Ulverston, took part with her partner Paul Baxendale and their three children Iona, six, Izak, nine, and Owen, 13.


“The kids absolutely love the idea of camping out in the cold and having a laugh throughout the night,” said Sian. “It’s something that we really enjoy doing together as a family.


“They have been telling their friends and teachers about it all week and they understand that this is helping older members of our community that often have to choose between heating and eating.”


Peter McCall, Cumbria Constabulary’s Police and Crime Commissioner, celebrated his birthday by taking part in the fourth event of its kind.
“Despite the ‘Big Sleep’ possibly being a bit of a misnomer, it was a superb event,” said Mr McCall. 


“I was somewhat damp and chilly - but after 34 years as a soldier it was not a new experience.
“It was great to join so many others, of all ages, concerned to raise cash and awareness of the issue around cold and the elderly.”