Two Essex business owners took to the streets this week to raise funds and shine a light on the plight of homeless veterans.
Charley Horne, who owns the Pink Toothbrush nightclub in Rayleigh, joined forces with Nick Seaby, proprietor of Swallow Aquatics, for The Great Tommy Sleep Out.
The pair spent a full day and night sleeping rough on the high street, experiencing a fraction of what thousands of former service personnel face across the country.
Their efforts have already generated more than £2,200 for the cause, with contributions continuing to come in from supporters.
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The duo set up camp on the pavement outside the NatWest bank on Rayleigh High Street, beginning their challenge at 4pm on Tuesday, and finishing exactly 24 hours later on Wednesday.
The Great Tommy Sleep Out is a national fundraising initiative run by Royal British Legion Industries via the Royal British Veterans Enterprise.
The campaign seeks to generate both money and public awareness for veterans who find themselves without a home, offering assistance including secure accommodation and mental health support services.
Charley Horne and Nick Seaby slept rough on Essex streets for homeless veterans
|Charley noted that opting for a busy town centre location was unusual among participants, with the vast majority of the near thousand people who have undertaken the sleep out choosing different settings.
"We did 24 hours in Rayleigh High Street to raise money for homeless veterans," Charley told the Southend Echo, "we are still collecting, but to date we have raised more than £2,000, and would like even more for this incredible charity".
He added: "More than 900 people have done this sleep out, but very few in high streets".
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Although friends and members of the public offered their support throughout the challenge, Charley reflected that the experience brought home just how devastating life on the streets must be for those without any alternative.
He said: "No one should be homeless in the UK in 2026, especially our veterans.
"Every night, thousands of veterans right here in the UK are facing the harsh reality of sleeping rough. Together, we can change it".
Both Charley and Nick have a long track record of backing military causes through various fundraising activities, from golf days to mountain treks and endurance events.
The pair spent 24 hours living rough on Rayleigh High Street
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Nick has further challenges lined up for later this year, including an ascent of Snowdon and a 40-kilometre hike in Kent.
Charley confirmed that additional fundraising events are in the pipeline for 2026, all aimed at supporting veterans and military charities.
The Royal British Veterans Enterprise provides assistance to former armed forces personnel who are homeless or facing the risk of losing their homes.
Those wishing to donate can still contribute at https://socialsync.app/fundraiser/cr-5mwp6y15r9jy3.