DOZENS of people braved the cold on Friday to spend a night on the streets in aid of a youth homelessness charity.

SASH - or Safe and Sound Homes - held a "sleep out" in Homestead Park on to help fund its NightStop service for young people facing homeslessness.

Around 40 people took part, including a group of six councillors from City of York's Labour group.

Among them was council leader James Alexander, who said: "It was a cold night, but a lot milder than a lot of people will have to put up with when they are facing that situation.

"I don't think many of us got a lot of sleep, and some of us came more prepared than others, but it was definitely a worthwhile and I am pleased we raised some money for SASH, and I hope people will donate more."

The councillors have raised £220 for SASH so far, but hope to bring in a total of £500 for the charity, which helps young people fight homelessness by getting them hostel accommodation and providing volunteers who can offer safe temporary accommodation. Their online fundraising page is www.yorksleepout.co.uk.