Following an assembly on 30th January led by Julian House, in which the issues of homelessness were explained, three children from Longvernal Primary School felt that they wished to do something practical to raise money to support the Bath-based charity, but also to experience what it feels like to have to sleep outdoors without shelter.

Supported by their parents, Ollie, Levi and Ivy set up ‘camp’ in Alice Park, Bath, for the Big Sleep Out event last Friday night.

At first, they thought it was fun exploring the park, but when they settled down for the night, they realised it was damp and very cold and they needed lots of layers and hats.

The children had very little sleep, owing to the cold temperature and unfamiliar setting, so the breakfast bacon sandwiches and juice were very welcome.

Ollie said: “It made me feel sad that homeless people have to do it every day. It was wet and muddy and we had to sleep on cardboard.”

Levi added that the ground was hard and cold and Ivy said she learnt how homeless people feel all night.

For more information, visit: www.bigbathsleepout.co.uk/