Mayor to spend a night in the cells to raise money for charity.

Derby’s Mayor will soon be switching his bed for the cells to raise money for charity.

The Mayor of Derby, Councillor Alan Graves, will be spending the night in Derby’s famous former gaol on Wednesday 3 April to raise money for his two chosen charities.

Located on Friar Gate, the gaol (pronounced ‘jail’) housed prisoners in two underground cell blocks between 1756 and 1828. Now a museum run by former Most Haunted expert, Richard Felix, the gaol is believed to be one of the most haunted spots in the country.

Councillor Graves is looking for citizens and organisations to sponsor his stay in the cells - the more sponsorship is received, the longer he’s prepared to stay locked up.

Each year, the Mayor chooses a charity or charities close to their heart to support throughout their term in office.

Councillor Graves said:

“I’m not really looking forward to spending a night in the cells although I will do it to raise money for two very worthy charities. Both charities do brilliant work and it’s fantastic that I can also raise awareness of their invaluable contribution to society.

So whether you’re able to sponsor a little or a lot, please consider getting involved. The more you donate, the longer I’m prepared to stay locked up!”

Anyone interested in sponsoring the Mayor's stay in the cells can contact Civic Support on civic.support@derby.gov.uk or 01332 643066.