A COMMITED fundraiser will once again be braving the elements in a charity sleepout to help raise money for homeless people on Teesside.

Will Forbes, from Middlesbrough, has signed up to take part in the Big Tees Sleepout for the fifth time in just two years.

The 37-year-old will be among the hardy souls who curl up in their sleeping bags on the pavements surrounding Middlesbrough College on Friday, November 13.

Mr Forbes is one of the first people to sign up for the sixth Big Tees Sleepout which has been organised by Middlesbrough and Teesside Philanthropic Foundation.

“I’ve taken part in all bar one of the previous Big Tees Sleepouts because I feel passionately about the need to tackle poverty and homelessness,” he said.

“I wouldn’t say I’m looking forward to the next one because sleeping rough is never something that’s nice, so I suppose it shows I’m a glutton for punishment.”

Since holding the first event in March 2013, the five events have raised £67,000 for those suffering poverty or homelessness.

“It might make for a rough night but the next morning you get to go home and have a shower and have a bit of a sleep,” added Mr Forbes.

“A night under the stars puts things into perspective, as one night of discomfort is not that big a deal.”

For more details or to sign up for the Big Tees Sleepout, visit bigteessidesleepout.co.uk. Participants must be aged 16 and over.