A HOMELESSNESS charity hopes 50 volunteers will brave the elements and spend a night sleeping rough to support its work.

Suits on the Street aims to give a flavour of what life is like for the homeless and raise awareness and money for Inn Churches' work to house them during winter.

The charity said the overnight event, on October 9, was designed to be enjoyable, while bedding down outside on cardboard would remind people of the harsh difficulties some people had in their lives.

Community development worker Ben Gwynne said: "Suits on the Street is a perfect event for individuals or teams of people to have a collective experience of something that is completely different from the norm.

"The event is often a life changing experience for those who take part. The shared experience will help teams or groups of friends to bond in a unique way having done something amazing together."

Project manager Juli Thompson added: "Last year more than ever we had guests in our shelter who were surprised to find themselves homeless - a lawyer, a nurse, a support worker.

"Several people found themselves at the mercy of their landlords and were illegally evicted.

"Suits on the Street is an incredible opportunity to, not only raise funds and awareness for the vital work Inn Churches do across our city, but also to learn a bit more about the reality of life on the street and those directly affected by it.

"The venue is the arches, near Forster Square train station in Bradford. This unique and interesting venue is perfectly suited to host Suits on the Streets Sleep Out.

"The event does not try to replicate homelessness, but you will be sleeping outside for the night. There will be hot food, drinks, a roaring fire and entertainment to keep everyone smiling!"

There will be support from the Inn Churches team and other agencies to ensure everyone has a safe, if a little uncomfortable, night.

For more information, contact Mr Gwynne at ben@innchurches or call the office on (01274) 955010.

People can also visit www.eventbrite.com/e/suits-on-the-street-tickets-12458155679 to sign-up.

A fee £9.98 fee includes a welcome drinks reception at the Midland Hotel and an Inn Churches beanie hat to help keep you warm.