As the nation was put into lockdown, last minute changes were made to ensure a sleep out to raise money for homeless veterans could still take place.

Originally, the plan was for business leaders to kip in the grounds of the Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) village in Aylesford, which houses more than 300 veterans and their families including three who were taken in off the streets over Christmas.

But with the spread of the coronavirus and subsequent lockdown, the charity had to adapt its plans.

So the six participants slept in their own gardens instead.

The group shared their experience via video link on RBLI's social media pages, as they got a glimpse of the harsh reality of a life on the streets, with freezing temperatures and animals visiting them in the night.

RBLI chief executive, Steve Sherry, was out in his sleeping bag along with managing director of the charity's manufacturing company - which provides employment to veterans and people with disabilities, Kate Bull, and four others - Garrath Williams, David Ogden, Steve Rowbotham and James Partridge.

More than £10,000 was raised for homeless veterans, with donations made via a JustGiving page.

Mr Sherry said: "As people are told to isolate in the comfort of their homes, it’s important to recognise that many who served our country will be left in isolation on the streets. This simply cannot happen and we wanted people to know RBLI is still here for them.

"Unfortunately, it’s very difficult to know just how many homeless veterans there are across Kent and many will not know of the services available to them at RBLI.

"Here we provide every veteran with the accommodation, welfare and – eventually – employment support to help move them back towards a fulfilled and independent life.

“So In light of the recent developments, we wanted to deliver on this event as best we could, recognising what unfortunately far too many veterans have to endure.

"It’s imperative that, as a charity who has supported the country’s most vulnerable veterans for the past century, we continue to do all we can to support those most in need – even at this challenging time.”

To donate to RBLI in support of homeless veterans, click here

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