Seventeen people aged from nine upwards slept outside to raise money for charity.

The brave volunteers slept out in the grounds of Trinity Methodist Church, Basildon.

Money raised will pay for hot meals all year round in five venues, provided by the amazing team of Project 58.7 volunteers, as well as sleeping bags, warm clothes and practical supplies for the homeless and those in need.

Those who completed the sleep out were rewarded with a certificate and a cooked breakfast.

The Rev Esther McCafferty, Project 58.7 coordinator, said: “Basildon people are very generous. There is greater awareness and support for homeless people. Times are getting tougher and we can be serving 29 meals a night.”