Coinciding with the launch of National Autism Awareness week, hundreds of people from across the north-east braved the cold to take part in the region’s second annual Walk for Autism.

Taking place today, Friday, April 1st, the 1-mile interactive route at Herrington Country Park was open to children and adults alike and took participants through a trail highlighting the different sensory issues people with autism encounter.

More than 300 people, including children, young people and adults with autism from the North East Autism Society’s schools, college and residential homes strolled around the countryside to help raise funds, and awareness of the condition affecting 1 in every 100 people.

Everyone taking part was given an activity booklet to complete along the way and our charity mascot Pawsum the Panda was waiting at the finishing point with certificates for everyone. There was also an Easter Egg prize draw for some lucky walkers too.

Sophie Clarke, Events Fundraiser at NEAS said;

The aim of the event was to firstly raise awareness of autism throughout the North-east, but also much-needed funds.

We’re thrilled at how many people turned up and we’re delighted to have raised more than £1100 with more donations and sponsor money to come. We’d just like to thank all those who came, all of our volunteers and the staff who supported the event. Such a great event with so many people really raises awareness that autism affects a significant number of people in our own communities.

Proceeds from the event will go towards supporting our Family Support services. This flexible outreach service offers invaluable support to families who are in need, or in crisis, seven days a week. It enables us to help people with autism access social and leisure opportunities and can be offered within the home or out in the community.

To see all the photos from the event please view to our Facebook album

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