Milton Keynes Mayor sleeps rough

He was among participants who ditched their usual bedroom comforts and instead made do with cardboard beds and boxes as part of the YMCA Sleep Easy.

The event raises funds to support young homeless people and the work of the MK branch of the YMCA, and the figure so far is an incredible £15,000.

“I was delighted to support this event...as the day approached I did worry about the weather forecast, but in the end when I got into my box at midnight, it was dry, but freezing. So much so that all the cars were covered in ice when we got up at 6am,” he said.

“The camaraderie amongst the 37 people was wonderful and grew throughout the evening as we realised our mutual commitment to this great organisation; the YMCA Milton Keynes and nationally does a fantastic job to support young people and the homeless.”

Recent budget cuts have seen £194,000 of funding withdrawn, so events like the Sleep Easy are essential cash raising opportunities.

“Fundraising income is vital to replace our lost funding and the success of events such as Sleep Easy is crucial if MK YMCA is to continue supporting vulnerable young adults in Milton Keynes,” said Ian Revell, YMCA CEO.

“We are so grateful to Keith for helping to raise awareness of the work of the YMCA, his abundant enthusiasm and energy for our cause has been wonderful.”