FOR the first time since ITV took their reality TV show ‘I’m a Celebrity … Get Me Out of Here!’ to the beautiful Gwrych Castle in Abergele, fans of the show are being given a chance to sleep rough at the site.

On April 22, brave charity fundraisers will bed down for the night in front of Gwrych Castle, to raise vital funds for Alabaré’s work with homeless and vulnerable veterans in Wales.

While the biggest challenge will be to give up a warm bed and sleep rough, the charity will be offering participants the chance to take on some challenges of their own.

By taking part, participants pledge to raise a minimum of £200 for Alabaré, and there are more daring challenges and a behind the scenes tour for those who raise £400 or more.

All of the proceeds from the event will be going to support Alabaré’s Homes for Veterans Cymru; so no veteran needs to call the street home.

Rebecca Mullen, Alabaré’s fundraising and development manager, said: “Alabaré has hosted ‘The BIG Sleep’ at some fantastic venues in the past – including Stonehenge and the Tower of London.

“We are so delighted to be able to bring ‘The BIG Sleep’ to Gwrych Castle and have the support of ITV in doing so.

“We’ve all seen the show; marvelled and gagged at the sight of celebrities taking on the challenges and now we all get to take part.

“The biggest challenge will be to sleep out at this derelict castle, with just some cardboard and a sleeping bag. It’s not for the faint-hearted!

“Naturally, participants will want to take on some of the challenges seen in the show, so we are working on that.

“We are looking for 200 compassionate people who want to take a stand against homelessness.

“Since COVID, with the cost of living rising, and more people struggling financially, we anticipate homelessness sadly is likely to significantly increase.

“But if we join forces, take part and raise the vital funds needed, Alabaré can offer a safe bed, training and employment opportunities to help veterans off the street.”

‘The BIG Sleep’ at Gwrych Castle has been sponsored by General Dynamics as part of its ongoing support of the military community.

Last year, Alabaré provided support and accommodation to more than 1,300 people, 108 of which were veterans, while providing hot meals and emergency shelter to many others.

On signing up, each participant will receive an electronic welcome pack containing a full kit list, sponsorship form and key information for the night.

To sign up, visit www.bigsleepcastle.co.uk.