A RYEDALE entertainer has smashed his target of raising £500 for charity by sleeping rough in Malton for 24 hours.

Ryan Swain, a live events presenter from Malton, raised more than £1,750 for the York charity SASH and Simon On The Streets in Leeds.

Ryan said: “It was one of toughest and hardest challenges I have ever taken part in, and it really has opened my eyes and gave me a front row perception to what it’s really like to be homeless and live on the streets.

“I found it gruelling, intimidating and was surrounded by unpredictable people even in town that I’m from. I only did it for a full day and night, but for some people this is a way of living - it really shouldn’t have to be in this day and age.”

During the sleep-out last month, Ryan was busking and drawing personalised portraits to sell during the day.

Accompanied by Dave Kilcourse, an ex-serviceman photographer, Ryan is hoping to recreate the sleeping rough campaign for 48 hours in a different city for 2020.

Ryan added: “There is every chance I might do something like this again this year to raise even more money and awareness for these charities. This time for 48 hours in a place I am unknown; to feel the real and damaging effects of what it’s like to be homeless.”

Donating £10 can help someone take the first steps out of homelessness, £25 can provide healthcare and counselling, £30 can teach skills or qualifications and £100 can provide support, training and equipment to help someone find their way back into employment.