Leamington-based charity hosting virtual summer sleepout

A Leamington-based charity is hosting a virtual summer sleepout this weekend.

The 'big family summer sleepout' is being hosted by Helping Hands.

Helping Hands works with vulnerable and homeless people in the district by providing much-needed help and the team have carried on doing so throughout the coronavirus outbreak.

The event will taking place on Saturday (June 13).

A spokesperson from Helping Hands said: "We’re encouraging families to have the ultimate summer adventure – get into the garden, build yourselves a den, and sleep out to raise funds for Helping Hands.

"Joined by Wasps Rugby players, we’ll enjoy a night under the stars for a fantastic cause."

The charity says it has lost most of its normal income as their shop and café is closed, fundraisers such as marathons are cancelled, and corporate events have stopped.

Despite this, more than 1,000 meals a week are being delivered to the most vulnerable, and rough sleepers who have been rehomed by the council have been provided by Helping Hands with essential furniture, cooking equipment and bedding.

The spokesperson added: "We’re asking that you donate what you can – the suggested amount is the cost of a family meal (we’ll leave it to you as to what this might be).

"There will be a prize on the night for the best den: upload a picture of your den before the Sleepout to Instagram using the hashtag #TheBigFamilySummerSleepout

"Get sponsored and raise even more for Helping Hands."

To take part, go to: tinyurl.com/HHSLEEPOUT2020