SAINTS mascot Boots and the mayor were among those who got their walking shoes on at Taylor Park in aid of autism awareness.

Marking World Autism Awareness Week, the event was held by the Autism & Asperger Society.

The group based at Hall Street helps adults on the spectrum.

Autism affects around 1.4 per cent of the population although campaigners believe the real figure to be higher.

People on the autism spectrum are affected in a variety of ways with some having everyday lives while others require a lifetime of help.

Mayor and mayoress Cllr Joe and Sylvia Pearson took part in the walk, which took in laps around the Taylor Park lake.

Trevor and Stephanie Adams, of the society spoke to the Star ahead of yesterday's walk at Taylor Park.  

Secretary Trevor Adams said: "We deal with adults with autism and give them a safe secure environment to go to which helps their wellbeing long-term and hopefully things like this help keep the door open.

"When they become adults all the help stops and they need something to support them.

"We've made a massive difference in the lives of adults with autism."

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