I did it! Actually it was more difficult than last year as it started to rain at around 4.00 am which is probably the lowest ebb of the night anyway, its when it really would be so easy just to go home - because you can - well we didn't; most of the 267 people who took part stayed the duration.

Every year around 4000 children under 16 years old in South Yorkshire are forced to run from all sorts of situations.  I'm pleased to have been able to support all the hard work that the team does on a daily basis, by raising money to help make sure these children have somewhere to turn for advice, support and practical help. Who knows what invitation they may accept when they get that 4.00 am feeling.

SAFE@LAST is a charity that works with children and young people, all under 16, who are at risk through running away or being thrown out of home. My wife founded the charity nine years ago and I am a Trustee. Over the years we have seen the staff team make a huge difference to children's lives but we still depend heavily on income through events like the Big Sleepout and of course in these difficult times, raising funds becomes an even greater challenge. So could you or your company please consider making a donation, I can assure you it will make a very real and positive difference.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.