A SLEEPOVER involving an MP, a crime commissioner and a chief constable has taken place in the cells of a police station.

Last night, nine local suspects, including Barrow and Furness MP John Woodcock, police and crime commissioner Richard Rhodes and chief constable Jerry Graham were locked up for the night all in the name of charity.

The aim of the lock-in was to raise funds for the Cumbria Victims Charitable Trust which helps people who have been affected by crime.

Also joining in the fun at the new Barrow Police Station in Andrews Way were special constabulary chief constable Paul Cretney; Celia Tibble, chairwoman of the Police and Crime Panel; Lynda Shaw, chairwoman of Crimestoppers; Rachel Hogarth of Women’s Community Matters; Lynne Chambers, Barrow independent custody visitor and Elaine Jamieson, magistrate.

Police and crime commissioner Richard Rhodes, said: “I think we are all in for a very interesting night. I think it is good that the chief constable and I can experience the facilities ourselves and we are hopeful we can raise some money for the Victims Charitable Trust, but I don’t think I will be getting much sleep tonight.”

Locked up from 8pm until 8am today, the 12-hour lock-in saw local dignitaries sleep in the new cells, complete with blue foam mattress and plastic toilet. On arrival, the suspects were taken through a real-life procedure, where they were booked in by police officers and told the nature of their arrest.

Inmates took along some of their own home comforts including teddy bears, books and sleeping bags.

Mr Woodcock said: “I’m looking forward to a bit of piece and quiet.

“It is so important that victims of crime in Cumbria and across the country get the support they deserve and need after something happens to them.

“I think charities like this which are dedicated to supporting victims and getting them back to feeling 100 per cent is a really applaudable thing.”

Before being banged up for the night, the detainees were given a tour of the new premises before settling down.

Once in their cells, the inmates were offered a choice of supper ranging from chicken casserole to hotpot, as well as an all-day breakfast.

Mr Rhodes added: “We were told to have something substantial to eat before we arrived.”

Mr Graham said: “I am a little bit anxious as it is not my usual sleeping arrangements, but it is all about raising money for charity and it is for a very good cause.

“Three and a half thousand people will spend the night in our cells and this is also about us celebrating the fact we now have really good facilities for them in Barrow.”