A sleep-out to end homelessness in Scotland is set to take place in the biggest event of its kind in the world.
Around 9,000 people are being invited to head along to Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh for a night which will see a line-up – consisting of Liam Gallagher, Amy MacDonald, Deacon Blue, and Frightened Rabbit – come together on December 9.
Sir Bob Geldof and John Cleese will also be making speaking appearances.
Comedian Rob Brydon will host, the Monty Python legend will read a bedtime story while the Band Aid organiser will sleep overnight in the gardens.
The event has been announced today by homelessness charity Social Bite who wants to raise funds and work together to stop the “sticky plaster mentality” and get to the root issues with a plan to eradicate homelessness over a five-year period.
The project is aiming to provide people with housing, rehabilitation, job opportunities, and the support they need to get back on their feet.
Sir Bob said: “When we launched Live Aid in 1985, it showed the power of music and events to create real and important social change. I first met Josh and Alice from Social Bite five years ago and I am delighted to support them and their effort to eradicate homelessness in Scotland by sleeping out in the cold at the event.
“The event has the potential to be a game changer in tackling the issue and I am right behind it, even if a little nervous to brave a cold Scottish winter’s night. I know Scotland to be a compassionate nation and I would implore you to get involved.”
Gallagher added: “Ever since Oasis got signed in Glasgow at King Tut’s, Scotland has always had a special place in my heart. The fans are among the best in the world. I’m looking forward to playing in Edinburgh and supporting this charity. I hope the event helps as many people back on their feet as possible.”
Organisers have set a fundraising target of £4 million from the event, but are also looking to generate 1,000 employment offers and 1,000 lodging pledges.
It comes as part of Social Bite’s aim to eradicate homelessness in Scotland within five years.
No tickets will be sold for Sleep in the Park, meaning members of the public and businesses can only attend by reaching fundraising targets and accepting the sleep-out challenge.
Visit sleepinthepark.co.uk for more information.