CELEBRITY chefs Lesley Waters and Mat Follas have signed up to support a Big Brekkie campaign run by Autism Wessex charity throughout April.

Now the two Dorset-based chefs are encouraging others to host a fundraising breakfast.

The pair will also be contributing their own recipe ideas as part of the fundraising pack available to all participants.

Christchurch solicitors, Williams Thompson LLP, has been announced as headline sponsor and will be playing their part to help raise awareness by hosting their own ‘Big Brekkie’ event too.

Suzanne Kadziola, practice manager and partner said:

“We are delighted to be sponsoring this worthwhile campaign for the third year running. Autism Wessex is an excellent charity which does so much to help individuals and families affected by autism.

"Whilst we look forward to hosting our own event, we urge others to get involved with their own fundraising breakfast.’’

All interested participants need to do is choose the time, date and location for their event. By donating money raised from the purchase of muffins, a full English, a continental breakfast or a bacon sandwich, Autism Wessex can continue to provide high-quality specialist services.

Every year they help countless people from across Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire and Somerset manage the effects of autism and its associated difficulties.

Emily Pike, corporate partnerships officer at Autism Wessex adds:

“It is great to have the Williams Thompson on board and we thank them for their generous sponsorship. They are helping us to spread awareness for our charity as we try to raise an impressive £5,000 to support those affected by autism.’’

The start of the Big Brekkie campaign will coincide with the international World Autism Day on April 2.

Autism organisations around the world will be hosting unique fundraising and awareness-raising events.

In addition, BBC MasterChef winner Mat Follas will be reducing the cost of his delicious brunch at his Bramble Cafe & Deli in Poundbury, between April 1- 8.

Mat is inviting his customers to then donate the difference to Autism Wessex. To find out more and to get involved in the Autism Wessex campaign, visit bigbrekkie.org.uk.