AN autism awareness group has raised more than £1,000 in two days – thanks to shoppers at a Risca supermarket, writes Alistair Corless

The Newport Autism Support Group was bucket collecting at Tesco Extra, in Risca, on April 1 and April 2, to mark World Autism Awareness week.

The group made £1,002.37 through donations from shoppers.

Treasurer and events manager for the group, Moira Hookings, took part in the fundraising with her 11-year-old son Leon. She said: “We had a really successful two days. We were based just inside Tesco and we couldn’t get over how generous people were.

“They were going back to their cars to get money if they didn’t have any change with them.”

She added: “We just want to say thank you.”

Charity Sparkle, who works closely with the Newport Autism Support Group, is holding a summer fete at the Serennu Children’s Centre, in Rogerstone, this Sunday.

The Newport Autism Support Group meets on the first Thursday of every month from 10am to noon at Serennu Children’s Centre. They organise day trips, run activities and offer support for families affected by autism.

For more information about the group, contact Hilary Leadbeater on 07899 906344.