PEOPLE swapped their warm beds for a cold night on the street in aid of a Wirral charity helping the homeless and needy.

Around 60 took part in the event, organised by Charles Thompson's Mission in Birkenhead, on Friday.

People laid out their sleeping bags in the carpark of the mission's premises in Hemingford Street in exchange for donations to the charity.

The event has, so far, raised £10,000 for the mission. 

Praising the public's generosity. Amy Stanley, a volunteer and fundraiser at the mission told the Globe today: "This is nothing like sleeping rough but it gives people an insight into homelessness, the issues faced and the work we do at the Mission.

"The night was dry but temperatures dropped to minus figures and we woke up to everything frozen so big well done to all those who took part.

"This was our fourth year doing our Sleep Out Event and its so heartwarming to see the community come together and want to help those in need.

2My main role at the mission is fundraising and it always amazes me how generous people are and how many people really want to help the homeless and other people in need.

"We couldn't do what we do without the generosity and support from community and they really do help us to make a difference.

The mission was opened in 1892 by Charles Thompson.

He died in 1903, but his goals lived on through daughter Annie who took over and was the charity's Lady Superintendent for 60 years.

She was awarded the MBE in 1953 for services to the people of Birkenhead.

The mission provides food, furniture, clothes, healthcare, counselling services and even toys for the borough's poorest children.

It is now run by Bernie Frost, who first got involved 14 years ago as a volunteer and has been manager for seven years.

Amy Stanley continued: "If people would like to donate to support us, we have a just giving page https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ctmsleepout2019

"All donations are massively appreciated and make a huge difference."