Street sleepout raises almost £5,000 for Royal British Legion

A HARDY volunteer raised over £4,000 for armed forces veterans by sleeping rough on the streets.

Nick Lockerbie, who lives in North Anston, took on the Great Tommy Sleepout for the Royal British Legion by bunking down in the street in Dinnington for two nights.

The football coach and standard bearer for Legion’s Dinnington branch raised £4,830 in total for the charity, which supports members of the armed services and their families.

“I did the sleepout last year for one night and raised over £2,000,” Nick said after undertaking the challenge.

“It was a no-brainer to do it again this year."

Asked why he was keen to take part, he said: “I just think it’s important that we support where we can and don’t forget the sacrifices the armed forces have made for us.

“It’s about supporting people less fortunate than yourself.

“Our soldiers sometimes struggle with the adjustments of life after the army and find themselves on the streets for whatever reason.

“In my opinion, nobody who has served our country should struggle when they leave the forces.

“We should do more to support them into work and suitable accommodation.

“As a country, we owe them a massive debt after putting everything on the line for us and leaving their families behind.

“They are all heroes in my eyes.”

Nick said the community had rallied in support of his fundraising efforts during the sleep out.

“The thing that kept me going was everyone’s support and the fact that I knew it would be over within two days,” he added.

“It was always just short-term pain unlike people that are truly homeless.

“Just being sat all day not doing anything was the worst part but it was worth it for the money raised.

“I took nothing with me and was surprised when people kept me fed and watered throughout.

“People were really kind and stopped for a chat as well.

“Those who are truly homeless don’t have the same level of support, unfortunately.

“It was tough but great to see the community pulling together for such a good cause.

“I’m truly humbled by the support shown from everyone.”

You can still donate to Nick’s fundraiser at https://tinyurl.com/Nick-Lockerbie-fundraiser.