MORE than 200 people are expected to brave the elements and bed down under the stars to raise money for a worthy cause.

The third Big Sleep event will take place at the Low Wood Bay Hotel in Windermere next Saturday, challenging people to leave the warmth and comfort of their own home in exchange for a night sleeping outside. 

Sponsorship money raised will go to Cumbria Community Foundation's Winter Warmth Appeal - helping the elderly heat their houses over the coldest months. 

In a bad winter, around 300 elderly Cumbrians die every year due to cold weather as they are made to choose between heating and eating.

The Big Sleep 2016 event kicks off at 2pm and includes live music in the marquee, food and refreshments, a movie screening and overnight parking.

Entry will cost £30 per person for over-16s or £5 for under-16s accompanied by an adult.

Around £45,000 has been raised for the appeal since the first Big Sleep and so far 205 people have signed up for this year's event, either individually or as part of a team.

Tips for raising money can be found on the Cumbria Foundation website - from setting up your own JustGiving webpage and spreading the word over social media, to asking your boss to match whatever money you raise. 

Everyone who raises £100 or more in sponsorship will be in with a chance of winning one night's dinner, bed and breakfast for two people at one of English Lakes' five hotels.

Last year, temperatures dropped to -6C, so participants are advised to wrap up warm and bring lots of blankets.

Sue Coulson, from Windermere, will be taking part for the first time this year as part of the Coulson Associates and Friends team, including Ms Coulson and Janet Gillespie of Coulson Associates, along with Janett Walker of Progression Solicitors. 

Ms Coulson said she was "inspired both as a company and personally to enter". 

So far they have raised £90 towards their target of £300.

Go to  www.cumbriafoundation.org/bigsleep to find out more and book your place.