YOUNG Labour party members braved freezing conditions on the streets of Crewe to raise money charity.

Crewe and Nantwich Young Labour were joined by Royal British Legion members as they slept rough on North Street to raise money for homeless charity, Shelter.

The Methodist Church allowed the group to use their grounds for the event, which also raised awareness of housing benefit changes for under 25s, and the high percentage of homeless people who used to be in the Armed Forces.

The Government has reviewed cutting housing benefit for people under 25. Opponents argue any such move would force more young people onto the streets.

Crewe and Nantwich Labour Party member Nathan Jones, 27, took part in the event.

He said: “It was really good and very well attended. It was very cold though – below freezing at some points. Dr Adrian Heald, Crewe’s Labour parliamentary candidate, brought us a much needed drink and bite to eat part way through, which was very welcome.”

“There’s a very real danger that changes to the benefits laws will create more young, homeless people. Not just traditional homelessness, but young people that don’t have a home and get by sleeping on a friend’s couch, known as Sofa Surfers.”

Stuart Kay, chair of Crewe Royal British Legion, also took in the event, to raise awareness of the high percentage of homeless people that are former service personnel.

Figures estimate that between 10-13 per cent of all homeless people in Britain were once in the Armed Forces.

The Royal British Legion offer help to former service men and women. To donate, visit www.britishlegion.org.uk Find out more about Shelter, and donate money, at england.shelter.org.uk