In early April, I brought together a group of serving and retired military personnel—including members of the special forces, cavalry and Royal Marines—to march onto the Northumbrian moors and sleep out during an incoming storm.

The challenge raised over £2.5k and awareness for veterans facing homelessness.

It was also somewhat personal. The developing conflict around the Strait of Hormuz brought reminded me that my father was stationed there for the same thing decades ago. Military service runs through my family, including my grandfather, known as Tommy, who served as an adviser to Field Marshal Montgomery.

Northumberland’s farming communities also share a long connection with the Armed Forces. For many families, service to the land and service to the country have gone hand in hand.

Sleep Out for Tommy brought those traditions together in support of veterans who should never be left without a home.

Support veterans

View the sleep-out