NEW drama classes for young people with autism and other disabilities will be launched next month.

The classes, at the North-East Centre for Autism in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, will encourage youngsters to use dance and drama to communicate and express ideas and emotions.

Funded by the Ashburn Trust in Darlington, the classes are part of a wider dance and drama project co-ordinated by the North-East Autism Society.

Susan Tron, trust fundraiser for the charity, said: “We are really keen to make the most of the marvellous facilities the charity has here in Newton Aycliffe.

“This is a great example of how we can work with other groups and organisations to offer a service that will help more than just our young people with autism”

TIN Arts, a not for profit contemporary arts group, will run the sessions, which also aim to help people with disabilities make new friends and develop self-confidence, while giving parents the chance to meet and share ideas.

The sessions, which start on Saturday, June 14, are free to eligible children under 18.

Children under eight will meet from 10am to 10.45am, with older children meeting from 11am to 12.30pm.

For more information or to register contact Ms Tron on 0191-410-9974 or susan.tron@ne-as.org.uk