CUMBRIA'S police and crime commissioner is set to spend a night under the stars as part of an annual charity event.

Peter McCall will take part in the Cumbria Community Foundation’s annual Big Sleep event on January 28 - which is also his birthday.

The Big Sleep, which is held on the shores of Lake Windermere, is held to raise money for the CCF's Winter Warmth appeal, which supports people across the county who struggle to heat their homes during the cold winter months.

The CCF says that fuel poverty is a "serious issue in Cumbria" and that recent figures from the Office of National Statistics have revealed a sharp increase in the number of excess winter deaths in the county.

The CCF also says that bad winters have seen as many as 300 excess winter deaths in Cumbria and that the the figure has increased by 50 per cent to 460 in the latest figures for the winter of 2014/15.

On the upcoming challenge, Mr McCall said: "The Big Sleep event is a great idea, and I am looking forward to taking part because I believe it is such a worthwhile cause.

"By raising money for the Winter Warmth Appeal, so many people show that they care for others in our community and it helps to raise awareness that we need to look out for our elderly neighbours.

"I hope we may be able to help prevent some of the 300 plus deaths that sadly occur in Cumbria each winter due to the cold. It is also a novel way to spend one’s birthday.”

Andy Beeforth, chief executive at the CCF added: “I am delighted that Peter has chosen to spend his birthday with us at the Big Sleep.

"It’s a great challenge and also a lot of fun. There’s live music, family entertainment, a film plus more surprises on the evening. I’m sure it will be a birthday he’ll never forget.”

Teams, families and individuals can still register to take part in the Big Sleep, which is held in front of the Low Wood Bay Hotel.

The CCF has provided a comprehensive list of what to bring, for anyone who wants to take part in the Big Sleep. It includes:

*Sleeping bag and blankets

*Sleeping mat Pillow(s)

*Plenty of warm clothes (hats, scarves, thermals etc)

*Thick warm socks

*Wellington boots/walking boots

*Waterproof jacket and trousers

*A small tent and groundsheet

*A bivi bag/survival bag (plastic)

*Torch and spare batteries

*Plenty of change for hot drinks and knitted items available for a donation

Hot drinks will be available throughout the evening for a minimum £1 donation per drink.

Hand-knitted coffee cosies - including children’s designs - will also be available for a contribution.

Anyone who wishes to register can do so by visiting www.cumbriafoundation.org/bigsleep or calling 01900 825760.