COMPASSIONATE staff and punters at a town centre pub braved the cold overnight to help raise over £830 for a charity which believes everyone deserves the chance of a career.
The Prince of Wales has raised over £830 for Only A Pavement Away by hosting a sponsored sleep-out and other fund-raising events.
The pub’s operator Jenni Pierson, assistant manager Davina Jones and regular customer Carole took part in a sponsored sleep-out to raise money and awareness for the charity.
They slept out in the pub garden from 11pm-11am in temperatures plunging as low as two degrees, and set the rules that they were not allowed under the sheltered area and only to go inside if they needed the toilet.
All they had to stave off the cold were their clothes – but kind Rugbeians came along to offer their support with food, tea, coffee and visits from furry friends to help keep up morale.
Only A Pavement Away works with employers in the hospitality industry, connecting them with homeless people, prison leavers and veterans to try and secure them stable employment.
The pub chose it as its charity of the month, and held a Boxing Day Quirky Quiz and a Pool Tournament as well as the sleep-out to raise funds.
Jenni said: “The sleep-out was an eye-opening experience, which I am very grateful to have been able to partake. Although it was very cold and we didn’t get much sleep, the sleep-out turned out to be a success and exceeded our expectations.
“The support from our locals was phenomenal, encouraging us all the way, bringing us food and drink and of course supporting Only A Pavement Away.
“Well done to Davina and Carole, you were both incredible and such lovely company to have. I am very proud of you both for your perseverance and positivity to carry on until the end.
“It was also such fun hosting the Quirky Quiz and Pool Tournament, there was such a buzz within the pub with a lot of smiling faces.
“Thank you to everyone who supported, donated, and helped raise awareness of this amazing charity and the work they do.”
The Prince of Wales will continue its fund-raising initiatives with future charities of the month. Visit www.facebook.com/RugbyPOW for more information.
