DURHAM cricketer Gordon Muchall is the latest ambassador of the North-East Autism Society.

The player, who made his debut in 2002, received a certificate from the charity’s chief executive John Phillipson at the North East Centre for Autism in Newton Aycliffe.

Mr Phillipson said: “It is really great to welcome Gordon as our new ambassador. His support and endorsement of the work is really appreciated by everyone.

“We exist to enable all people with autism and those who love and care for them to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives.

“Our passionate, expert staff and volunteers work across all age groups and abilities providing direct support for people affected by autism”.

Mr Muchall said: “I am delighted to be able to support the work of this important local charity.

“I know first-hand some of the challenges parents face when dealing with a youngster on the autism spectrum and know how important and vital the work of the charity”.

There are more than 500,000 people in the UK living with autism and 26,000 in the North- East.

For more information about Autism visit www.ne-as.org.uk The charity can be contacted at its head office in Chester-le-Street on 0191-410 9974.