The Sleep Out for Simon event in O’Moore Park will go ahead tonight in the face of Storm Brian.
“I think we are probably a bit daft, but sure what the hell,” chairperson of Laois Friends of Midlands Simon Michael Martin laughed.
“We have checked everything out on health and safety grounds and O’Moore Park are happy to go ahead,” he said.
He said the logistics of trying to cancel at such short notice would be too difficult.
The brave souls who sleep out in the elements tonight can take shelter in the stand or wherever suits best, Mr Martin said.
“On nights like these rough sleepers will take shelter somewhere and it will be same for those taking part tonight,” Mr Martin said.
Only a handful of students will now be taking part, but funds raised have been pledged for the project.
The event will be down about 100 students but 40 – 50 adults will still be taking part.
Students from Colaiste Iosagain plan to host a stay awake night shortly in lieu of the night in O’Moore Park.
Anyone is still welcome to turn up on the night.
Brave
“If any person is brave enough to turn up on the night, with our without sponsorship cards, we won’t turn them away,” Mr Martin said.
The event is expected to raise considerable funds for the local Simon organisation.
Registration will take place at 9 pm tonight.
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