Scores of stalwarts braved the winter weather and slept outside to help the homeless in Swindon.

Around 70 people of all ages spent the night outside Immanuel United Reformed Church in Upham Road on Friday and hope to raise more than £15,000.

Former mayor Stan Pajak took part in the event for the sixth time.

He said: "It is a date in my diary I don't really look forward to but it is morally good. I have had a drop of red wine to warm me up."

This year Coun Pajak (Lib Dem, Eastcott) has raised more than £100 in sponsorship money.

The annual event is organised by Threshold Housing Link and Peter Alberry, chairman of its board of trustees, also took to his sleeping bag under the stars.