Walker’s Hadrian’s Wall challenge for autism acceptance
James Henderson, from Sunderland, hopes to spread acceptance and understanding two years after his own autism diagnosis, as he takes on an 86-mile trek along the Northumberland landmark.
Charity mascot race ends in photo-finish
A FUN-PACKED mascot race in aid of a NEAS ended up in a dramatic photo-finish in front of cheering punters.
The first “Royal Mascot” race took place on Racing TV Zetland Gold Cup Day at Redcar races, with six runners going to post – a horse and jockey, crocodile, hedgehog, panda, griffin, and monkey.
H’angus The Monkey, representing Hartlepool United, blazed a trail down the final furlong of the seaside racecourse and thought he’d won, only to be pipped on the post by Vauxhall Griffin, sponsored by Bristol Street Motors.
Killer Croc, who was badly hampered when his head kept swiveling round, finished a gallant third and the hedgehog, called Snowdrop The Spikeshuffler, finished fourth. Meanwhile, the horse and jockey – named Face of Society – collapsed exhausted in a heap, and poor old Pawsum the Panda trailed in last because he didn’t realise the race had started.
A bucket collection was held at the end of racing for the North East Autism Society which marks its 40th anniversary next year.
Amy Fair, general manager of Redcar Racecourse, said:
"This was our first mascot race and it was great fun in aid of a charity that has been doing important work in the North-East for the past 40 years. Congratulations to Vauxhall Griffin and special commiserations to H’Angus The Monkey who was clearly gutted to have gone so close."
John Phillipson, chief executive of the North East Autism Society, said: "This was the first time we’ve linked up with Redcar Racecourse and it was just a fantastic day. Thank you to everyone who made us feel so welcome."
Acting CEO/Trustee of the Children’s Foundation, Dr Sue Vernon, said: “Airports are stress filled places for us all and the sensory room is a brilliant additive to the airport, bringing a space of calmness for children and young people with sensory problems.”
Sarah Stephenson, Community Fundraising Partner for the Toby Henderson Trust, added: “I think that this has been a very well thought out project by the airport – and the sensory area is in a great and quiet location.
“It has real potential to calm children down who may be anxious about their journey, and it will be a great support for parents or carers travelling with them.”
The sensory area will have limited availability, however passengers do not need to book for usage.
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