FAMILIES across the region put their best foot forward to raise awareness of autism last week.

The North East Autism Society (NEAS), which has a school in Newton Aycliffe, staged a one-mile walk in Herrington Country Park to raise awareness of the condition.

More than three hundred people took part in the event called ‘Walk for Autism’ on Friday, April 17.

Sophie Clarke, events fundraiser, said: “It was lovely to see staff, service users, parents and carers, other autism groups and school participating in the walk.

“We want to support families throughout our region by increasing the understanding of the condition and how with the right support people with autism can lead full, productive lives, contributing to community life.”

The walk was interactive and at certain points along the route, children were given clues to try and find the charity’s mascot Pawsum the Panda, who was on hand to greet all those who participated with certificates.

John Phillipson, CEO for NEAS was presented with a £100 donation from student Lauren Stephens, 19, who participated in the walk.

She said: "I managed to raise £100 due to the sale of the NEAS awareness ribbons which made approximately a quarter of this total, whilst the remaining was raised from friends and family."

Money raised from the event will help fund NEAS Family Development Services, which includes toddler groups, parent’s workshops, family support groups, adult social groups and a trampolining club.

For more information about NEAS visit ne-as.org.uk or call 0191-4109974.