'Fantastic response' so far to forthcoming Big Harrogate Sleepout for vital work of two local charities

With just weeks to go until the life-changing Big Harrogate Sleepout event, organisers are calling on local businesses, community groups and residents to sign up and help make this year's event the biggest yet.

Following last year's event, which raised an impressive £10,000, organisers are aiming to surpass that total in 2026 and are encouraging those who cannot take part to support participants through donations.

Taking place on Thursday, October 1 at Harrogate Rugby Club, the Big Sleepout raises vital funds for Harrogate Homeless Project and Saint Michael's Hospice, supporting people experiencing homelessness and families facing end of life care across the district.

Nicola Ridgeway, Fundraising Manager at Harrogate Homeless Project, said: "The response so far has been fantastic.

"We're delighted to have lots of businesses returning and some new faces already signed up.

"With the support of our founding partner, Harrogate Spring Water, we're looking to continue growing the event into something the whole community can get behind and, together, make a big difference."

The Cedar Court Hotel Harrogate is one of several businesses taking part for the first time this year.

Stacey Webster, Hotel Manager at Cedar Court Hotel Harrogate, said: "We heard about the event last year and thought it sounded like a brilliant team-building experience but, more importantly, a chance to give back."

Steve Moss-Blundell, Private Client Regional Manager at Titan Wealth, who has supported the event since its inception, said: "The evening is great fun and creates a real sense of community spirit.

"I'd encourage other local businesses to bring a team along and get behind this fantastic initiative.

The event will once again be hosted by the Your Harrogate team and will include a welcome drink, dinner, quiz, raffle and live entertainment from the Harrogate Barbershop Chorus, before participants spend the night outdoors.

Sophie Fisher, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Saint Michael's Hospice, said the charity was delighted to be benefiting from this year's Big Harrogate Sleepout.

Tickets cost £25 per person, and businesses who enter are encouraged to raise additional sponsorship to maximise their impact.