BUSINESS owners from Flintshire have backed a charity sleep-out and are encouraging others to get involved.

Richard Howells, who owns the Olive Tree delicatessen in Mold Town Centre, is to take part in Citizens Advice Flintshire's sleep-out.

The event will take place at the charity's offices in Connah's Quay on March 23.

Speaking of his motivation for supporting the event, he told the Leader: "I found the idea interesting because I have never done anything like it before.

"I don't know quite what to expect but I think how it goes it is going to depend on the weather.

"I think it will be challenging and it will recreate some of the difficulties that people face.

"It is definitely a worthwhile cause and I would absolutely encourage other people to get involved and support it."

Hawarden resident Tom Mulvaney, whose Birmingham-based business provides serviced offices around the UK, is also going to be supporting the event.

Mr Mulvaney, 61, explained: "I have never done anything like this before and I think it is going to be a bit of a challenge because I like my creature comforts.

"I am quite excited and I have had a good response from sponsors, so the fundraising is going quite nicely so far.

"It is something very different and hopefully between all of us we will raise a good amount of money."

Asked why he decided to get behind the cause, he added: "I think it is important because there is a level of deprivation I think we walk past on the high street of any big town or city too easily.

"We see homeless people or those living rough and this is an opportunity to do something about it and raise awareness - that’s why I signed up for it."

To speak to the charity's sleep-out organisers or sign up visit www.flintshirecab.org.uk/sleep-out