Bolton Wanderers annual Sleep-Out challenge returns
It's to raise money to help tackle homelessness
An annual sleep out challenge is returning to Bolton Wanderers to fight homelessness and poverty.
Those taking part have been invited to the Toughsheet Community Stadium sleeping pitch side overnight, between 8pm and 8am tonight.
Funds will help young and vulnerable people and those in need of food and shelter.
Charities involved include Bolton Wanderers in the Community, Urban Outreach, Emmaus Bolton and Backup Northwest.
Emmaus Bolton, which offers a home and meaningful work to up to 22 people with experience of homelessness, has been included for the first time this year.
Club CEO Neil Hart and COO Phil Mason are among the 130 fundraisers to sleep overnight and to raise as much money as possible for local charities.
Neil Hart said: “Though there’s a break in the domestic football schedule this week, there is certainly plenty still going on off the pitch and we are proud to be hosting this great event to support our community.
“We’ve had fantastic backing from local businesses and Wanderers’ supporters who will brave the cold with us to support these special charities who are all carrying out invaluable work in Bolton.
“With close to £10,000 already raised, we’re excited to see how far we can push the total and send our thanks in advance to all those who are able to donate.”
The club said the hope is “to break through last year’s total of almost £28,000.”
Phil Mason said: “We are proud to once again be hosting this event with the aim to raise both awareness and funds for the local Bolton charities that do so much good work in our community to support the most vulnerable.”
Organisers have urged as many supporters as possible to get involved in this unique challenge.