CHRIS Webb is hoping for dry nights next month when he does a charity sleep-out.

The Chudleigh councillor and former mayor is taking to the streets for a couple of nights to raise money for two Teignbridge charities.

After dark on Monday and Tuesday, July 4 and 5, you will find him huddled in a sleeping bag on the pavement near Chudleigh Town Hall.

He said: ‘I have done quite a few odd things before for charity. I walked to Plymouth a few years ago, and have organised an antiques roadshow. Last year I sat in a bath of baked beans to raise cash.

‘This is the first time I’m sleeping rough so I’m hoping for good weather. Homelessness is a growing problem in Teignbridge so half the money I raise will go to Teignbridge Homeless Action Today (That), based in Newton Abbot.

‘The other half will go to the Chudleigh Youth Centre. Devon Youth Services have sadly withdrawn their funding so the centre relies on donations. Some centres in the county have been forced to close, but the Chudleigh one keeps going with help from coffee mornings and raffles.

‘These are not just a place for a coffee and a game of pool. The centres provide advice on education and skills learning. They hope to help youngsters become a part of something bigger.’

Anne Buttenshaw, That charity chairman, said: ‘It’s difficult to gauge the exact numbers of homeless in Teignbridge as their lifestyle means people tend to drift in and out of the area. We have seen a rise in numbers over the past few years though. Some of them have serious health issues and they do need our support.

‘The charity depends on donations. Food and toiletries can be left at most of the main supermarkets. We have internet facilities at our Buckland offices for people to drop in and use.’

Chris will be zipping up at 10pm each night. Anyone wanting to make a donation to the two worthy causes can contact him on 07968 508451.