A charity is calling for volunteers to experience a night of sleeping outside to raise funds for homeless young people.

The YMCA's eighth annual Sleep Easy event is happening at Diocesan House in Easton, near Norwich, from 7pm on Friday, March 3, to 7am the following morning.

Individuals and work teams from across Norfolk can take part in the night-time fundraiser for YMCA Norfolk.

The event is also happening to raise awareness of the work the Christian charity does for homeless and vulnerable young people in the county.

Michael Mills, an assessment and training officer from Early Help North, East and Broadland, who is taking part in this year's Sleep Easy event, said: 'We are passionate that young people get the support they deserve.

'The fact that in 2017 we still have a high number of young people sleeping rough, having no support and nowhere to go is not good enough.

'I want to help raise awareness as this is everyone's responsibility and I believe together we can make a difference.'

He added: 'By raising funds for YMCA, it means that more young people can have a room over their head and be given hope that they so deserve and need.

'These young people need someone to just reach out and help them realise their full potential and worth and get them back on track.

'I challenge people out there to help raise awareness, to take up the challenge and together we can stamp out youth homelessness.'

Sleep Easy participants will take part in various activities including building cardboard shelters before braving the cold by sleeping under the stars.

YMCA Norfolk provides supported accommodation provided to more than 260 young people every night who might otherwise be homeless.

Sharon Hollinger, a Sleep Easy supporter from Insight Financial Associates, said: 'It is humbling and inspiring to hear the stories of the young people and about the work of the YMCA that helps to bring about transformation and provide a better future for young people.'

To register an interest visit www.ymcanorfolk.org/event/sleepeasy.

Alternatively contact organiser Susie Knights on 01603 621263 or at susieknights@ymca-norfolk.org.uk