TRYING to sleep under a pile of leaves in a cold corner of a churchyard while drunken people argue, dogs fight and in a rainstorm isn’t the best way to nod off.

But those were the difficult conditions facing ABP Southampton’s harbourmaster coxswain Lee Gallacher when he took part in the national Sleep Out, fundraising and raising awareness for homeless and disadvantaged young people.

Lee left the comforts of his home in Eastleigh to spend a whole night outside in the grounds of St Mary’s Church in Southampton for the challenge, organised by the Society of St James (SSJ) and other partner charities.

This is the third year running that Lee has taken part in the Sleep Out. He found out about the event through ABP, who sent an email to staff asking if anybody wanted to support the event.

Lee is keen to raise awareness of the plight of homeless people and says that this year he was even more motivated as there has been a huge increase of those who spend their days and nights on the streets.

“Over the past few years I’ve got to chat with many homeless people about how they got into this situation and how they survive living without a roof over their heads,” said Lee.

“It’s truly heartbreaking, and makes you realise that we’re all potentially vulnerable to losing everything if we became ill, lost our jobs and had no-one to support us.”

The fundraiser, on November 11, attracted great support. A total of £13,000 has so far been raised by participants who experienced the hardships of sleeping rough for a very long night outdoors.

Lee took on the challenge alone and raised a personal total of £350 to support the Society’s work, which includes the running of hostels for homeless young people, paying for support workers and providing extras like a Christmas meal.

“We really experienced what homeless people go through when they sleep on the streets every night - often through no fault of their own – and it isn’t easy,” said Lee, who also raises awareness of homelessness through social media.

“I’m a mariner and used to wet weather conditions, but it’s very tough when you’re out there alone.”

Sam Bax, community and fundraising support officer for the Society of St James charity, said: “We are proud to partner with so many other organisations across the country for the Sleep Out, which enables people to experience a taste of what it is like to be homeless for just one night.

“We are grateful to Lee and everybody else who took part or supported us at the event – the proceeds will be used to support disadvantaged, local young people towards brighter futures.

“It was a great success and we look forward to next year.”

To donate to the Sleep Out, visit: www.justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/societyofstjames/sleepout16