The Rec Sleep Out saw businesses, individuals and Bath Rugby players come together to share a cold night together. 

Participants spread their sleeping bags out all over the West Stand at the home of Bath Rugby and slept in the open air to raise money and raise awareness to tackle the issue of youth homelessness.

Ahead of lights out Bath Rugby players served up food, kindly cooked and donated by Bath restaurant, Corkage and Richard Bertinet, while sleepers were able to keep warm thanks to hot chocolate from Dr Gelato and Mulled Wine from Walcot House.

The group who braved the cold was joined by Bath Rugby and Argentina international player, Lucas Noguera.

The annual event was created to tackle the issue of youth homelessness and this year’s event at the home of Bath Rugby also supported The Amber Foundation and Eddie Ilic, both of whom have strong links to the problem.

Bath Rugby Foundation works with more than 3,000 children and young people annually and staff are increasingly aware that more and more of the participants on the charity’s programmes do not have the security of a permanent home. Many young people find themselves sofa-surfing or moving between various types of temporary accommodation. Sadly, there are often times that young people arrive at the charity hungry.

Bath Rugby Foundation CEO, Lynne Fernquest, said: “Thanks to everyone who supported the Rec Sleep Out, either by taking part or making donations to ensure the event was a success.

“We wish we didn’t have to hold the Rec Sleep Out, but too many young people in Bath, including many on our programmes do not have a safe a secure place to spend the night.”

To donate to the Rec Sleep Out appeal, visit https://www.bathrugbyfoundation.com/appeal/the-rec-sleep-out-2019-appeal