TWO Borders women will brave the cold this weekend to help raise funds for a homelessness charity.

Karen Redpath and Fiona Howie, both from Galashiels, are hoping to do their bit and help raise money for and awareness of Steps to Hope – an Edinburgh-based organisation.

On Saturday (January 13) the pair will sleep out on the streets of Gala after being inspired by the founder of Steps to Hope, Richard Roncero.

Since December 5, Richard has been sleeping out for nearly eight weeks in eight different cities.

Karen said: “We have just watched Ritchie [Richard] from Steps to Hope Sleep out for nearly eight weeks in eight different cities.

“We just wanted to give something back to the charity as we have seen how being homeless is such a big issue nowadays and we cannot get up to the planned Edinburgh sleep out so we thought we could do it in our hometown.”

Karen and Fiona plan to sleep on cardboard and keep warm with sleeping bags.

As part of his fundraiser Richard is relying on the generosity of the public to pay for his food and drink while he sleeps rough, as well as donations which will go to the charity.

The money raised by Karen and Fiona will go towards the total being raised by Richard – which currently stands at £106,345.

At the time of publication Fiona and Karen have so far raised £134 of their £100 target.

However, the pair haven’t set themselves a firm fundraising target.

Donors have shared words of support for the Galashiels women, one person said: “Proud of you ladies.

“Seriously good cause. Good luck!” and another added: “Admiration for you both, great cause”.

To support Karen and Fiona’s sleep out for Steps to Hope, visit: www.justgiving.com/page/karen-redpath-1704743230190