Some of the participants in the 10th Mansfield Big Snore

MORE than 100 people raised £15,000 at the 10th Mansfield Big Snore and highlighted the problem of rough sleeping in the town.
The event was organised by Framework, which said its Sherwood Street Centre is at risk because of Nottinghamshire County Council’s proposed cuts.
On a typical night the charity supports half a dozen people who are either sleeping in the open, in tents, or in dangerous and unhealthy environments.
Volunteers slept out in cardboard boxes at St Mark’s Church to raise awareness of homelessness in Mansfield.
Every penny raised – which could be as much as £20,000 when individual pledges and sponsorship from Western Power Distribution is included – will be used to help rough sleepers in the Mansfield area get their lives back on track and move towards independent living.
Pam Bishop, of St Mark’s Church, said: “It amazes me how many people give up their night to come together and raise money to help those less fortunate in Mansfield.”
Framework’s fundraising manager, Louise Darby, said: “The money raised will change lives in the year to come. Waiting lists for Sherwood Street Centre are often up to 10 people long.”
Miss Mansfield, Grace Turner, took part for the first time. She said: “I’ve never done anything like this before. It’s important to support local homeless and vulnerable people.”

The youngest participant, Holly Harris, 9, was part of a group from Spectrum Wasps, Rainworth, above.