STURMINSTER Newton youngsters slept rough to help homeless people in Dorset – raising more than £1,800.

A group of 16 students and four staff members from Sturminster Sixth Form slept in the school grounds to raise funds for the YMCA, to aid efforts to combat youth homelessness in the county.

Braving the wind and rain, the group, supported by additional staff working in shifts, constructed makeshift shelters out of boxes, tape, and tarpaulin – their only protection from the severe weather.

Their commitment to the cause saw them through the night, until nearly torrential conditions at 4am compelled them to move indoors.

Students braved the cold to raise money to tackle homelessness

The sleepout, supported by Sheena Dayman from the YMCA, received generous support from businesses in the area, including Domino’s Shaftesbury who provided pizzas, while companies like Pitman’s removals, Suez waste collection, Stalbridge Linen, and the Factory shop contributed materials for shelter and supporting the clear up.

Sam Ling, head of sixth form, said: “I’m outstandingly proud of my Sixth Formers for bringing this together, and braving the elements.”

This is the first time the school has run the event and raised £1,850.

“This achievement highlights not only the success of the night but also the ongoing commitment of the Sturminster Newton community to support vulnerable youth,” Sam added.

Anyone interested in supporting the cause can still contribute at tiny.cc/stursleepeasy.