Students at a Dorset school have braved wind and rain, sleeping 'rough' for a good cause.

Sixteen students and four staff members from Sturminster Sixth Form slept rough on school grounds to raise funds for the YMCA to combat youth homelessness in Dorset.

The group, supported by additional staff working in shifts, constructed makeshift shelters out of boxes, tape, and tarpaulin – their only protection from the severe weather.

Their commitment to the cause saw them last most of the night until nearly torrential conditions at 4am compelled them to move indoors.

The sleepout initiative, supported by Sheena Dayman from the YMCA, received support from local businesses. Domino’s Shaftesbury provided pizzas, while companies like Pitman’s removals, Suez waste collection, Stalbridge Linen, and the Factory shop contributed materials for shelter, whilst supporting the clear-up.

Sam Ling, Head of Sixth Form, expressed his pride in the students’ efforts.

He said: “I’m outstandingly proud of my sixth formers for bringing this together and braving the elements."

This is the first time that the school has run this event and raised £1,850.

Those interested in supporting the cause can still contribute at tiny.cc/stursleepeasy