Almost 100 people across south Buckinghamshire braved the freezing temperatures to sleep rough for one night and raise money for a homeless charity.

Dozens of cold and wet volunteers had to wrap-up warm and make their own shelters to see what life is like for people who have no option but to sleep on the streets in a bid to raise funds and awareness for Wycombe Homeless Connection (WHC).

In total, 97 people slept out on Friday night, with 58 sleeping in All Saints Church in High Wycombe, 22 at All Saint’s Marlow and 17 people at St Mary and All Saints Church in Beaconsfield Old Town.

WHC chairman, Dr Sheena Dykes, said: “As things stand, we can say that we have raised over £30,000 - a stupendous result - and it is still rising every day.

“It makes such a huge difference to know that we have secured that level of funding. Just as importantly, we have engaged with a huge number of local people who have clearly demonstrated their support for what we do. We are so very grateful.”

“As a postscript, early on Saturday morning as we were clearing up, a man came into the church to ask for a hot cup of tea.

“He had recently become homeless and had slept rough elsewhere in the town overnight. He was cold and pretty desperate. He really needed our help. Our work continues."

Councillor Maz Hussain, representing Disraeli at Wycombe District Council, was one of the 58 people taking part in the big sleepout in Wycombe.

He said: “I feel proud to be part of this event. I did it last year in the Eden Shopping Centre too and I’m really happy to be involved.

“It’s just to experience one per cent of what homeless people experience during December, January, February and see what is like for them.”

For more information about the charity visit www.wyhoc.org.uk