THE dad of an eight-year-old boy with autism is going to walk from Wigan to St Helens to raise funds for a charity that helps others on the spectrum.

Lee Smith from Haydock used to self harm after being diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder but has turned his life around by focusing on helping others.

In 2019, the 37-year-old was admitted to hospital because his mental health issues made him feel very low. But rather than let that time define him, Lee decided to help others to give himself a feeling of self worth.

After raising funds for Macmillan, the Steve Prescott Foundation and Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Lee has now set himself a challenge to raise funds for a cause even closer to his heart.

He said: "My charity work has saved my life, it gives me a positive focus and moving forwards it really helps me.

"I'm proud of what I've done, but now I've decided with my son Lee having autism that I'd do something for a charity called AUtism Initiatives.

"Me and everyone else involved are fundraising old style by walking, some in fancy dress, with buckets from Wigan to St Helens through Haydock. We will basically walk the route of the 320 bus.

"I hope people will come out on the day and donate what they can, it means a lot."

The walk called Pie town to Glass town will take place on Saturday, February 15 from 10.30am

If anyone wants to join Lee in his walk or donate ahead of the event contact him via Facebook.

If you are feeling at crisis point support is available at samaritans.org and by calling them on 116 123 24.