Staff from convenience stores have helped raise thousands of pounds for charity.

Some 18 One Stop staff from across Hampshire - including in Fareham, Gosport, and Southampton - took part in Trinity Winchester's Big Charity Sleep Out.

The event, which saw participants sleep outside Winchester Cathedral, raised £6,900 for the homeless charity.

The staff joined others in creating cardboard shelters to sleep in on May 16.

Fareham, Gosport, and Southampton workers join effort to aid rough sleepersFareham, Gosport, and Southampton workers join effort to aid rough sleepers (Image: One Stop) This was to raise awareness of the conditions faced by homeless people every day.

Darren Gransden, area manager for Portsmouth at One Stop, said: "It was such an eye-opening experience to feel just a snippet of the awful conditions homeless people face every single day.

"The experience was worth it, and we hope the money raised can go a long way and make a huge impact."

The Trinity Winchester charity provides specialist supported housing and a range of health services, including GP care, counselling, and dental care, to those who are homeless.

The charity also supports those experiencing domestic abuse.

Kirsty Boote, events and community fundraiser at Trinity Winchester, said: "We are delighted with the sponsorship money raised by the One Stop team.

"This substantial amount will enable us to continue offering our vital services to those in need.

"We would like to send a heartfelt thank you to all staff involved and their customers for their kind donations."

The funds raised from the Sleep Out will be used to support Trinity's services, offering long-term positive change.

Jack Taylor, community and partnerships manager at One Stop, said: "Our colleagues are very passionate about raising money for local charities and this challenge just shows their dedication.

"They experienced just a small part of what homeless people face each day and we’re all so proud of them giving up their homes for the night and completing the big sleepout.

"Their incredible fundraising total will help make life lighter for so many people facing homelessness."