A TEENAGER has raised more than £3,500 for a homelessness charity by sleeping on the streets of Weymouth for 24 hours.

Phulamay Bhusal, 15, started the sponsored rough sleep with her mother and some friends at 10am on Thursday, April 11.

She has raised more than £3,500 for the Bus Shelter Dorset, a charity based in Weymouth that helps homeless people get their lives back on track.

Speaking after the event, Phulmaya said: "We are all so happy that we managed to get through it.

"It was really cold, we were glad we were in a group, and we really could imagine what it would be like if you were on your own.

"We all struggled with just the one night, we all have colds and everything. It would be so so difficult to just do this every single day and I think that's the main thing we've learned from this experience.

Her mother, Natasha Hope, said: "We were joined by a chap called Steve who was back on the streets. I know him well as he had spent a year on the Bus when I volunteered there.

"It was great to have him with us all night as it made everything more real and he was able to share insights and experiences with us all.

"As darkness drew in, we became very much aware of our vulnerability - but how much more severe that would be as someone sleeping alone on the streets.

"We also realised that as we counted down our 24 hours, when the night temperatures came down to near freezing, Steve was not counting down his hours. This would be his home for an unknown period. That thought didn't leave anyone's minds when we returned to the comfort of our own homes on Friday night.

"Tired and a bit bedraggled the understanding of how sleep deprivation must have a massive impact on the daily lives of those out there was also prominent in our minds.

"We all found the experience to be both eye and heart opening. Making us each reflect on our own lives and the world so many turn a blind eye to. It was a truly enlightening moment in time and something none of us will ever forget. The team - barely knowing each other before- feel that we have made long term friends.

"Although there have been some negative, ignorant comments and feedback, something those on the streets face daily, the people of Weymouth and beyond have been incredibly supportive and we thank them from the depths of our hearts.

"The vital role of charities such as the Bus shelter Dorset - who help local rough sleepers to get their lives back on track - has been highlighted even more for us all. It is a complete necessity and one we all feel delighted to have been able to support."