Peterlee firefighters have raised more than £1,000 to help homeless veterans after camping out overnight.
Ten firefighters on Blue Watch at County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) braved the elements to take part in Great Tommy Sleep Out event on Sunday, March 29.
The crew made a permissive County Durham camping spot their home for the night and used only basic kit to give them an insight into what it is like to be without proper shelter.
Peterlee Watch Manager Anthony Matthias, 54, said: “The sleep out went really well.
“We pitched five tents and one tarp to accommodate everyone.
“The temperature got down to around 3°C and we had rain and gusts of wind all night.
“But being uncomfortable made you appreciate what it’s like to be homeless and not able to sleep in a comfortable bed.”
The crew have so far raised £1,285 for the Royal British Veterans Enterprise which supports ex-servicemen and women to rebuild their lives by creating jobs, providing homes, and building communities across the UK.
Watch Manager Matthias, who has been with CDDFRS for 25 years and came up with the idea to get his crew involved, added: “We would like to thank all those people who have taken the time and trouble to contribute to the charity.
“These vital funds for the Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RVBE) will help to provide safe homes, mental health support, employment opportunities, and communities where veterans can support each other.
“We also want to give a shout out to the owner of the permissive camp spot for allowing us to use their land.”
The crew is continuing to collect donations until the end of April.
To donate, visit: https://socialsync.app/fundraiser/cr-wx5mm681nmo50
Caption: Peterlee firefighters during their charity sleep out.
