PEOPLE across the North-East are ditching their usual suits, ties and other workwear for something a bit more festive this December in aid of an award-winning regional charity.

Back – like Santa – by popular demand, Jolly Jumper Day returns on Friday, December 6, and dozens of businesses, organisations, and individuals are getting their snazzy Christmas jumpers on to raise money for the North East Autism Society.

Fundraising manager Kevin Meikle said: “Jolly Jumper Day is a great way to do something fun this Christmas that will make a big difference to a lot of people.

“We’re hoping as many people as possible will rally their friends and colleagues to join in and make this the biggest and best Jolly Jumper Day yet!”

The festive fundraising day is part of the charity’s #MyKINDofChristmas campaign, which highlights the importance of kindness and understanding at Christmas, such as recognising that some people may have all their sensory boxes ticked while others will find it overwhelming.

Last year, people throughout the North-East grabbed their noel knitwear to get involved – even some celebrities like Pineapple Dance Studio’s Louie Spence took part!

The Northern Echo:

Many more people are expected to take part in 2019, as the charity prepares to celebrate its 40th anniversary. All you have to do is don your jolly jumper, and make a small donation to NEAS – the easiest way to donate is by clicking here to set up a Just Giving page.

There’s still time to sign up to take part in Jolly Jumper Day 2019 – just give the NEAS fundraising team a call on 0191 4109 974 if you need more information.

For the first time ever, NEAS has also launched its own range of limited-edition designer Christmas clothing, making it easier than ever to get involved.

Don’t have a Christmas jumper? No problem! Just order your own official NEAS Christmas t-shirt or woolly bobble hat by visiting www.ne-as.org.uk/pages/shop/department/festive-merchandise.

Kevin said: “All the money raised by sales of our new tshirts will help establish 2020 programmes for young people who are autistic or non-neurotypical. By buying and wearing one, you’re not just showing support for the vital work of the North East Autism Society, you’re also directly helping us to change and improve the lives of people all across our communities.

“We’d love to see you all in your Christmas clobber too, so don’t forget to send us your photos on Facebook and Twitter!”