HARTLEPOOL AND DURHAM SOTHO (Sleep Out To Help Out)
We visited Hartlepool on 4th May. 4 vans stayed overnight on Hartlepool Marina, courtesy of The Old West Quay. We litter picked, with support from Abbie Silivistris (Motorhomes and Campervans against litter), we talked to people who would listen, and we identified a number of places on the Marina that would be perfect for an aire. And we spent our money! A total of £223.95 was spent, with over £100 going to The Old West Quay, and the rest went to local shops and cafes, and essential purchases.
We then moved on to The Belmont Travellers Rest, just outside of Durham, where 4 vans stayed overnight. Although this venue would not be suitable for an aire, it would be great as an overnighter with meal when travelling north or south on the A1. More litter picking, which gave rise to a number of conversations with local people about why we were doing it. Other possible sites for aires were identified for contact later. And we spent our money! £83.75 was spent at the Traveller’s Rest, and £64.65 was spent in shops and cafes in Durham, a total of £148.40.
Overall we contributed £372.35 to two local economies over 2 nights, and we now have more contacts and work to do to promote aires to local communities!