More than £22,000 has been raised by Chelsea fans bedding down in their football stadium to help homeless people – and the money is still coming in.
The Big Stamford Bridge Sleep Out saw dozens of supporters crawl into sleeping bags on sheets of cardboard spread over the concrete floor of the east stand concourse.
At dawn the pitch was bathed in sunrise colours before club staff served everyone a hot breakfast.
“It was another successful event, despite the cold weather,” said Mark Meehan, who chairs Chelsea Supporters’ Trust and helped coordinate a night to benefit Stoll, the veterans’ charity alongside the stadium in Fulham Road, and the Barons Court Project.
The sponsored volunteers shivered through Saturday night before reviving with cups of tea and hot food. “Sadly, homelessness and rough sleeping are rising,” said Mark.
“The money we raise will make a real difference to two important local charities, and provide support and help to those that need it most.”
Stoll works as a charitable safety net for 100 ex-servicemen and women in Fulham after they leave the armed forces, while the Barons Court Project (which is part-funded by H&F Council) is based in Talgarth Road, and assists homeless people and those suffering poor mental health.
“I’d like to thank Chelsea FC and all the relevant departments at the club for their continued support of the event,” added Mark.
“The Big Stamford Bridge Sleep Out once again shows the amazing things Chelsea supporters can do when they gather together to help make a difference.”
Contributions to the good causes can still be made by visiting the volunteers’ Just Giving page.
