A TEAM of runners from Newbus Grange hospital in Darlington raised more than £350 for the North-East Autism Society after completing the recent Run the Spectrum Fun Run.

With money still coming, members of in the team, who all work at the hospital, hope to exceed this total, while raising awareness of autism and dispelling some of the myths surrounding the condition.

More than 700 runners tackled the 5k route and were doused with brightly-coloured powdered paint as they ran through five ‘colour zones’, adding to the sense of fun the occasion generated.

Newbus Grange is a 17-bed independent hospital providing specialist assessment and rehabilitation for men on the autistic spectrum with associated complex needs.

Manager Hazel Southern, who was one of the runners, said: “We all had a fantastic day and are pleased that we were able to raise money to support the North-East Autism Society.

“The society does fantastic work raising awareness of autism and supporting individuals and families.

"Working with people with autism is both challenging and rewarding and the work the society does in raising awareness is invaluable.”