FUNDRAISERS are being urged to cook up a treat and make the most important meal of the day count.

Announcing details of its Big Brekkie campaign backed by Dorset chefs Lesley Waters and Mat Follas, Autism Wessex is urging people to support the initiative which highlights World Autism Awareness Day 2017.

The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness of autism until everyone understands.

The charity is calling for supporters to join in the campaign by hosting their own breakfast any time in April.

Lesley Waters and Mat Follas have supported the charity for the past three years. Previous campaigns have raised over £12,900 to date.

Williams Thompson Solicitors LLP is acting as headline sponsor once again and the Dorset Echo's sister paper, the Bournemouth Daily Echo, is media sponsor.

The tenth annual World Autism Awareness Day takes place on April 2 2017.

Every year, autism organisations around the world celebrate the day with unique fundraising and awareness-raising events. Whether you are an individual, a business or a school, you can host your own Big Brekkie anytime in April and donate the funds raised.

Fiona Hawkins, fundraiser at Autism Wessex said: “This year we are trying to raise an impressive £5,000 and every penny you can donate will help. All you need to do is get your friends, family, or colleagues together, decide what delicious breakfast you want to eat, download our fundraising pack and host your very own event. Please get involved and join us for this fun fundraising opportunity.”

Autism Wessex will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2018 and provides high quality specialist services for people affected by autism and associated difficulties. The charity’s help is varied and far reaching and includes social care services, adult residential services, an advocacy service and special needs education provision, Portfield School.

Social opportunities, such as those provided by the charity’s popular drop-in groups help to change lives.

Service user Gillan said: “As someone with Asperger’s Syndrome, I find going out incredibly stressful. I am always anxious about what might happen, and if I’ll be able to cope” With encouragement and support from Autism Wessex, Gillan found the courage and confidence to attend his local drop-in.

If you would like to get involved in the campaign visit www.bigbrekkie.org.uk to download your fundraising pack and start making a difference today, the fun way.

For further information on any of the charity’s quality services visit www.autismwessex.org.uk