Sleepout success at Pirelli Stadium
Around 90 people braved the cold to support YMCA Burton 's 14th annual sleepout at the Pirelli Stadium.
A further six also participated virtually by camping out in their back gardens.
Participants received a cardboard box and were shown where to set up before a soup kitchen.
They then heard from the charity 's president Ben Robinson and CEO Paul Laffey.
Mr Robinson, who is also the chair of Burton Albion, said there are around 274,000 people classified as homeless in the UK.
He also described the role the YMCA has in the local community.
After what felt like a long night, the participants woke up and were given a breakfast roll and hot drink before making their way home.
Fundraising and partnerships manager Paula Senior, who has organised the Sleepout for the last seven years, said: “I am blown away and humbled by the support it gains. From people signing up to Sleepout to the people wanting to help in other ways.
“The boxes were sponsored by Burton Albion Football Club who not only allow us to host Sleepout at the Pirelli ground each year but also supply us with breakfast for all our participants too.
“We thank Soubhi at Subways Burton for donating cups and cookies again this year, Alex from ACJ Media who always supports Sleepout by capturing the emotion, atmosphere, and purpose of the evening through photography.
“Also, thanks to our fabulous box sponsors. Not forgetting a massive thanks to my wonderful colleagues and all our volunteers who make sure our events run flawlessly, thank you to our Sleepouters and their sponsors - we could not run this event without you. ”
Paul Laffey added: “A huge thanks to the staff and volunteers who make this such a great event, it is always great to hear people 's stories and motivation of taking part. ”