A BUSINESSWOMAN is preparing to sleep rough in aid of a charity supporting homeless young people.

Donna Dobson, owner of The Fox & Field store, in Barnard Castle, will take part in Centrepoint’s Sleep Out challenge, next month.

The mother-of-one will be one of hundreds of volunteers taking part in the challenge at The Stadium of Light, on November 15, to raise funds for the charity which helps some of the society's most vulnerable.

Speaking about the experience, Mrs Dobson said: "I don't know what to expect but I know it;'s going to be cold. I just hope it raises plenty of money and awareness as I do think in our area people are a bit sheltered to what's on their doorstep."

The 47-year-old has previously held winter coat appeals from her shop and this year will be providing warm packages including hats, gloves, hot water bottles and flasks.

Mrs Dobson has already raised more than £200. To sponsor her visit sleepoutsunderland-2018.everydayhero.com/uk/donna