MORE than 100 volunteers will brave the freezing December weather at the town's ‘biggest SleepOut ever’ to show solidarity and support homeless people.

Homeless charity Threshold will stage its SleepOut at Supermarine Sports Club this weekend.

Threshold’s chief development officer Michael Keenan said: “It’s a special year for Threshold as we celebrate 47 years of helping the homeless of Swindon.

“Our Big Swindon SleepOut attracts the most compassionate and caring people from all over the region to one place for one very special night.

“We’re very excited to be able to share this invitation to all the wonderful communities across Swindon.”

A group of fire cadets from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue service will be among those taking part.

“The event, brings together the most beautiful, selfless people, all in one place and at one time,” added Michael. “It’s a real celebration of our humanity – individuals, corporate teams, community groups and whole families are attending, from little kids with their parents as young as five this year, to an elderly lady who is 87.

“It’s truly remarkable, there’s such an absolutely amazing energy and vibe being created”.

Mum-of-three Jemma Hilden will be attending the SleepOut with her family from 8pm on Friday, December 6 until 7.30am on the following morning.

She said: “ “I want my children to have a diverse life experience and to be good citizens.

“When we discovered Threshold’s Big Swindon SleepOut in 2018, it seemed a perfect event to educate the children with a first-hand and personal experience of sleeping rough, as well as to directly make a positive impact in our community through the funds we raised.”

The charity will serve a hot breakfast for all participants from 6am on Saturday.

Michael added: “We’ve surpassed last year’s participant numbers weeks ago and it’s gearing up to be the most powerful and socially impactful SleepOut we’ve ever hosted in our great town. Now with only three sleeps to go, there’s a last call for registrations - we’re so hoping you’ll join us.

“If you want to take part and join this extraordinary community event please visit our website and register to get your ‘Sleeper Pack’ with all the info you will need. and please tell your friends.”

Further information at: https://www.thl.org.uk/events/the-big-sleepout-2019/