STAFF and council officials will be enduring icy chills and snow this weekend when they sleep on the streets to support a homeless charity.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough councillors Barry Hunt and Steven Goldswain will be wrapping up warm when they join volunteers in raising money for Coatham House, which provides safe accommodation for young people in housing need aged 16 to 25.

Taking place this Saturday (January 24) from 8pm till 8am the following morning the Real High Street Sleep Out will be part of a national campaign to highlight what is a big issue amongst young people.

Cllr Hunt said: “I am very pleased to be doing the Real High Street Sleep Out alongside Cllr Goldswain to raise money for such a good cause and highlight an issue that really shouldn’t exist in 21st Century Britain.

“The work done with young people by Coatham House is invaluable in giving them a roof over their heads and making sure they stay safe.”

Cllr Goldswain added: “It's going to be an interesting and challenging experience but as volunteers we will have the luxury of going back to our warm cosy homes the next day.

"Sadly this is not the case for young people who find themselves homeless and why we need to support the fantastic work of charities like Coatham House."

Volunteers, who must be over 18 and physically fit, should provide their own sleeping bags and warm clothing but some comforts, including toilets and security, will be provided. There is a £3 registration fee but participants are encouraged to raise sponsorship.

For more information call Coatham House on 01642-486844, or email redcarsleepout@gmail.com