Castle 'sleep out' raises hundreds for veterans' charity

The event was organised by local man Jake McAtamney in aid of Soldiers off the Street.

The charity works with ex-service personnel whose lives have been affected by homelessness.

"The response was fantastic; there were about ten of us who were out all night, and upwards of 80 people who were involved at different points," Jake said.

Local politicians including David Hilditch, John Stewart, Cheryl Johnston and Noel Jordan backed the initiative, while several visitors donated hot food for participants.

"Dobbins Inn sent over two trays of sandwiches and told us to knock on their door if we needed to use their facilities," Jake added.

Over £450 in cash was collected on the night with further donations of sleeping bags, toiletries, and clothing.

A short service in memory of the fallen was also held prior to the sleep-out.

Soldiers off the Street has re-homed six Army veterans in Northern Ireland alone this year, most recently a former serviceman in the north Antrim area.