AN autism charity which struggled to keep going through the economic downturn has been given £200,000 by the People's Postcode Lottery.

Daisy Chain, based in Norton, near Stockton, is hoping to use the money to expand services, and possibly run another employability scheme for its youngsters.

Judith Haysmore, chief executive of Daisy Chain, said: "This is fantastic news for everybody in the area who is affected by autism.

"We were already looking at ways to expand our services as demand just keeps growing. This money will have a real, direct and dramatic effect on the lives of the many families who need our support.

She said the charity was already looking at the best ways to spend the money.

"We have a few ideas in the pipeline," said Ms Haysmore. "We would like to run another employability scheme which was a success in its first year and benefited our trainees.

"But with Government money scarce we weren't sure we would be able to do so.

"Maybe we can now. We could introduce an autism information section in our charity superstore (on Portrack Lane) with sensory items to illustrate their value.

"And we will look to expand the services we provide to the whole family - mum, dad, and siblings - they need support too."

More than £79.2m has been given to charities and good causes by the People's Postcode Lottery.

Clara Govier, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery said, “Daisy Chain is a fantastic charity that really provides a sanctuary for families affected by autism and I am delighted that this continued funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery will enable the charity to continue providing invaluable services.”

Three years ago the then chief executive of Daisy Chain , Matt Simpson, said the charity's income had fallen by almost 30 per cent during the economic downturn.

A fall in public donations and a drop-off in support from the council was blamed for the funding issues.

But thanks to the charity's efforts, which involved holding ten times more fundraising events and activities, the financial situation improved marginally.

However, demand for services has increased massively - and combined with the lack of funding at the time some families were not able to use services.

Daisy Chain opened in 2003 and was the vision of Lesley Hanson, who died in 2004, aged 35, and her husband, Duane. Their son, Jacob, was diagnosed with autism from a young age.