A WILTSHIRE legend has decided to support a homelessness charity by taking part in the upcoming Big Sleep at Stonehenge next month.

Phil Harding is best known for his work on Channel 4 archaeology show Time Team, which ran from 1994 to 2013, as well as appearances on Meet the Ancestors and Digging for Britain.

He was also chosen as a Deputy Lieutenant for Wiltshire in 2016, among a team of people whose role is to represent King Charles III at ceremonial and civic events in the county they serve.

The archaeologist has now teamed up with Salisbury-based homeless charity ALABARÉ to take part in the Big Sleep which will see him sleep under the stars at Stonehenge on November 14.

Phil Harding said: “Stonehenge is an incredibly special place to me. I’ve done archaeological digs there, helped out as a volunteer on site, and visited many times as part of my research.

“I’m so pleased to be joining ALABARÉ there on Friday, November 14 as a BIG Sleeper, and show my support for veterans.

“We’ll spend the night on Salisbury Plain to raise awareness of the homeless crisis facing so many of our veterans who’ve served the country and also spent nights on the Plain during training and on exercise.

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“It’s going to be damp, and uncomfortable, but I’m up for it. It’ll be so wonderful to relate to the people we’re supporting, and a personal gesture on my part to do that.”

ALABARÉ director of strategic communications, James Tomlinson, said: “It’s fantastic to have Phil Harding joining us for the BIG Sleep at Stonehenge, given his deep connections to the site and Wiltshire as a whole.

People are encouraged to sign up now Picture: Alabare

“We’ve been delighted with how many people have committed to join us in standing side-by-side with current military personnel, veterans, people who have been supported by ALABARÉ and, of course, the charismatic Phil Harding.

“There are still a few places left – so we encourage people looking to take part alongside Phil and ALABARÉ to sign up fast.

“Phil’s commitment to helping us break the cycle of homelessness is greatly appreciated and highlights the importance of the need to help those who have served in their time of need, at a time when demand for our services is increasing.”

A charity spokesperson added: “The charity is grateful to Phil for his support of the BIG Sleep event at Stonehenge – one of the world’s most famous landmarks and somewhere that’s hugely important to Phil’s work – while also showing solidarity with veterans facing homelessness.“

ALABARÉ has more than 30 homes for veterans across the south west of England and Wales, offering residents safe and stable accommodation, as well as tailored support to improve physical and mental health, and employability skills, so veterans can rebuild their lives towards a brighter future.

Latest Government statistics show there are around 6,000 former military personnel who are facing homelessness, equating to one in every 400 veterans.

The BIG Sleep at Stonehenge will see 200 people sleep out at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, raising awareness and funds to ensure ALABARÉ’s support of veterans can continue and expand.

It’s the first time a public sleep out has been held at the ancient monument, in a partnership with English Heritage, as they look to support the extensive military community which surrounds the site.

The night itself will include a stargazing session with the Cranborne Chase National Landscape team and an exclusive sunrise visit to the stone circle for our top fundraisers.

BIG Sleepers are encouraged to sign up now to avoid disappointment. Find out more at https://alabare.co.uk/events/the-big-sleep-stonehenge-wiltshire/