AUTISM charity Daisy Chain would have made its founder's dream a reality, her son said, as it celebrates its 15th anniversary.

Daisy Chain was set up by Lesley Hanson in 2003 after her son Jacob was diagnosed with autism at an early age.

She quickly became aware of the many issues facing parents and carers of children with autism spectrum conditions and wanted to create somewhere for families to go for support and enjoy activities together.

Sadly Ms Hanson died, aged just 35, in 2004 after a routine operation.

Jacob, now 23, said: "Like the old saying goes, from small acorns do mighty oaks grow, and after 15 years in the making it’s amazing to see Daisy Chain blossom.

"Myself and the rest of my family are all pleased with the great impact Daisy Chain has made in caring for those on the spectrum and raising awareness of autism.

"I thank everyone who has contributed to making my mum’s dream a reality.”

Daisy Chain has continued to expand and grow and has supported more than 2,000 families since 2003 - almost 200 children a week from toddlers to adults. It also offers educational placements, adult social clubs, supported work placements and an employability course.

Events including a Big Picnic for supporters will be held this year to celebrate, at Calf Fallow Farm, where Daisy Chain runs a day centre and farm.

People are also being asked to raise funds by holding their own Big Picnic this summer.

The 5.5 acre site has undergone major development since Albert Dicken, current patron and former Chair of the Trustees, supported Lesley to buy it. As well as the day centre which cost £1m and was opened in 2010, there are also sensory gardens and play areas.

Stuart Dexter, chief executive of Daisy Chain, said: “I am in my first year at Daisy Chain and I am constantly amazed at the dedication, passion and hard work that everyone involved commits to in order to support families affected by autism.

“Autism is a lifelong condition and with just 16 per cent in full-time work, a figure that hasn’t changed since 2007, we see a lot of adults struggling to find employment. It is vital that support services don’t end when children grow up. They still need support and advice."