Marathon dad’s Lotto windfall joy

GRANT boost: Russell Burt, with five-year-old son Charlie, who has autism

A ROAD-RUNNING dad who helped set up an organisation to help families affected with autism, is celebrating after receiving a £10,000 windfall.

Russell Burt (29) conquered the epic 26-mile London Marathon in April this year in aid of the National Autistic Society.

Spurred by his own experiences with autistic son Charlie, Russell, from Failsworth, managed to raise £5,000 for the charity.

Now he’s teamed up with a mum from New Moston, Sue Broaderst, to launch the Autumn Support Group — a not-for-profit organisation for families across the region.

The group, which has only been going for five months, has just received a boost in the form of £10,000 grant from the Awards For All lottery fund.

Russell said: “To get the money is just fantastic.

“We were hopeful but we couldn’t believe it when the letter dropped through the door.

“From dealing with finances, to behavioural issues, education or simply filling in forms — parents do need that support there.”

Already the Autumn Group has staged fortnightly meetings for parents to swap advice and tips to deal with the behavioural issues of autism as well as inviting professionals to speak to the group.

The TLM centre in Monsall is the current meeting place for the team, that aims to attract members from across Oldham.

With the newly-gained funding, the organisation can now expand and provide social trips for parents and children.

Parental workshops and courses are also going to be run from next year to help carers cope with daily stresses and strains that arise from dealing with the condition.

To get in touch with Russell or Sue call 07581-103771 or email autumngroup@live.co.uk.