A Warminster veteran camped out for a night at the town’s war memorial to raise funds and awareness for veterans experiencing homelessness.
Darren ‘Daz’ Armstrong took part in The Great Tommy Sleep Out on Friday 6th March, raising almost £1,300 for the Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE), a charity helping veterans in need.
“It was a cold one but worth it for my fellow men and women who are on the streets,” said Daz, who served in the army for 27 years, including 23 years full-time with the Royal Yorkshire Regiment.
“Just £15 will get them in for the night, get them a shower, some hot food, and advice on how to move forward with their lives.”
Daz was inspired to take part in the sleepout after seeing Billy Billingham, from SAS: Who Dares Wins, talk about the challenge on television.
“This is the first time I’ve done this; I’ve only been raising money for four weeks,” said Daz.
“Next year I’m going to do it on Battlesbury Hill next to the chair for the fallen guys I lost from the Yorks in 2010. There’s a bench at the top of the hill that I look after.”
Money raised will go directly to RBVE, helping provide safe homes, mental health support, employment opportunities, and a community of veterans who support each other.
“I’d like to thank everyone for their support. I’ve had a lot of donations and people have been very generous,” said Daz.
To donate to his fundraiser, visit https://socialsync.app/fundraiser/cr-1pxrq0469l168
