Charity sleep out postponed due to storm

A sleep out to raise money for homeless people in Guernsey has been postponed for safety reasons because of expected stormy weather.

More than 160 people had signed up to take part in the annual Big Skipton Sleep Out, an event that challenges islanders to spend a night sleeping outdoors to raise awareness and funds for hidden homelessness.

It had been due to take place on Friday but with Met Office weather warnings issued for wind and rain in the south west, Skipton said that it would reschedule.

A spokesperson said: "While we know how important it is for participants to sleep out in solidarity with those experiencing homelessness, we also have a clear duty of care to everyone involved."

In making the decision to postpone, organisers said safety was the "overriding priority".

"Forecasts indicate that wind conditions are expected to worsen as the day progresses, increasing the risk to participants, volunteers and anyone on site.

"We will share further information shortly on next steps, including options for rescheduling and how fundraising will continue," they added.

The inaugural event in 2025 raised more than £40,000 with 150 people taking part.

Money raised will go to Caritas Guernsey's Community Project, which aims to provide modular housing and support for the homeless.

Storm Ingrid - named by the Portuguese weather service - is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds, with a yellow warning for wind and rain covering south Wales and south west England until 09:00 GMT on Saturday.

Gusts up to 60mph are expected in south west England through Friday and locally on exposed areas they could touch 70mph at times leading to large waves and risk of coastal overtopping and flooding.

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