THE MP for Colchester slept under the stars at London’s Kia Oval cricket ground, in support of a youth homelessness charity.

Will Quince took part in the overnight challenge to raise funds for Depaul, which hosted the annual event on World Homeless Day.

The charity works to prevent young people from sleeping on the streets.

Conservative Mr Quince, who is Co-Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Ending Homelessness, said: “In my constituency, sadly, there is high prevalence of rough sleeping.

"Homelessness is a wider issue but rough sleeping is what we see day in, day out on the streets.

"One person sleeping rough is one person too many. That’s why we have got to have the support in every part of the UK and Colchester is no exception to that.”

Charity chief executive Mike Thiedke said: “Depaul Sleepout is a powerful event which changes perceptions about people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

"Giving up the comfort of your bed to help people who are marginalised and living in isolation is a humbling, valuable and memorable experience.

“We’re very grateful to Will Quince for taking part in the Depaul Sleepout and helping us to end homelessness once and for all.”

Over the past four years, Depaul has persuaded chief executives, MPs and Peers to sleep out to raise funds for its work in prestigious venues - including Wembley Stadium, Lord’s Cricket Ground, and Somerset House.

The evening included two performances by singer J Cocoa, who is a young person supported by Depaul, a charity auction for cardboard boxes in which to sleep for the night, and a soup dinner.