Selfless Rosie spends three nights under the stars to help homeless Armed Forces veterans

“I was absolutely freezing and it rained all day on the Sunday. It really gave me an insight into what it must be like to be homeless and living on the streets”

The words of Seaham woman Rosie Laws who last weekend (March 13 - 19) spent three nights sleeping under the stars with just canvas to keep her dry to raise hundreds of pounds for the Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE).

Rosie Laws spent three nights under the stars to raise money for Armed Forces veterans.placeholder image
Rosie Laws spent three nights under the stars to raise money for Armed Forces veterans. | Rosie Laws

After completing her challenge Rosie, 31, said: “I’m incredibly proud to share that I have successfully completed my charity challenge as part of The Great Tommy Sleep Out.

“It was a challenging but truly humbling experience that gave me just a small glimpse into the hardships many veterans face and I’m really happy to have raised this money.”

Rosie has family members who've served in the Armed Forces.placeholder image
Rosie has family members who've served in the Armed Forces. | Rosie Laws

Rosie spent three nights in her tent at Colliery Farm in Haswell near South Hetton.

She added: “I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to The Oddfellows Arms in Haswell for their warmth, kindness, and support - including providing warm drinks - throughout the three days. Your hospitality made a real difference.”

The Royal British Veterans Enterprise “empowers veterans and people with disabilities by creating meaningful jobs, providing quality homes, and building inclusive communities where everyone can thrive”.

Rosie said: “I have family serving in the forces and I don’t think people realise all the sacrifices they make and some of the difficulties veterans have when they come out of the military.

“Thousands of ex-servicemen and women face homelessness, unemployment, and hardship after serving our country.

“This experience has meant a lot to me, and I’m grateful to everyone who helped to make it possible.”

Rosie has so far raised £461 for the charity through her JustGiving page, but you can still donate the cause.

Rosie added: “Thanks to the kindness and generosity of everyone who supported me. This money will go directly towards helping those who have served our country but are now in need.

“Together, we are making a difference.”

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