The plight of homeless people will be highlighted at a sleep-out organised by Devizes Opendoor.

The voluntary group has run a drop-in centre for homeless people since it took over from the charity Alabare last September.

The money raised from the sleep-out tomorrow night will go to Alabare towards their drop-in centres in the county but Alabare will give a portion of what is raised to Devizes Opendoor.

The sleep-out is on the cold, hard floors of St Mary’s Church, Devizes, from 9pm until 7am on Saturday.

Sue Kemp, co-ordinator of Devizes Opendoor, is one of those taking part.

She said: “We have about half a dozen people who are doing the sleep-out to express their support for assisting the vulnerable.

“We will be bringing sleeping bags and cardboard to sleep on and tea and coffee will be provided. I think St Mary’s is a suitable venue because of its lack of comfort.”

Devizes Opendoor runs a drop-in centre Monday to Wednesday from 9.30am to 12.30pm at St James’ Parish rooms in Victoria Road.

Visitors can have breakfast, a hot drink and receive support. A housing and benefits adviser visits the centre one day a week.

A donation from Sarsen Housing Association has bought a laptop computer, printer and stationery that visitors use to prepare CVs.

The charity is also grateful to companies like the Moonrakers Egg Farm at Pewsey, which regularly donates eggs for breakfasts at the drop-in centre.

They also receive a lot of support from the other churches in Devizes.

Ms Kemp said the project is in negotiations to move to a new venue in Devizes that would have showers and laundry facilities.

Ms Kemp said: “On average about 15 people a day attend the centre. We offer support and a place for them to come where they know they will not be judged. They can chat with others or sit quietly.”

Anyone wishing to take part in the sleep out should call Ms Kemp on (01380) 830557.