A GARDEN centre in Ferndown are to host a festive autism-friendly shopping night in partnership with Autism Wessex.

Haskins Garden Centre will be holding the free event on Wednesday November 27 from 6.30pm to 8pm.

The centre will be open exclusively to those affected by autism and their families, which will allow attendees to enjoy Haskins’ festive activities, including crafts and the opportunity to meet Father Christmas, in a quieter shopping environment.

Thomas Johnston, Fundraising Manager at Autism Wessex, said: “This is the second autism-friendly shopping night that Haskins has hosted. We are delighted that staff are willing to give families affected by autism an opportunity to experience Haskins’ festive cheer.

“Christmas can be a challenging time for many. The chance to shop, buy presents and meet Father Christmas in a relaxed, welcoming environment can mean the world to families affected by autism.

“We hope that Haskins’ example will show other businesses and the wider community how easy and rewarding it can be to become more autism-friendly.”

Autism Wessex was the garden centre’s nominated ‘Charity of the Year’ in 2018, with more than £5,000 raised for the charity through a variety of events held at the Ferndown centre and from change collected from Haskins’ ‘Wishing Well’.

Simon Hallam, General Manager at Haskins Garden Centre in Ferndown, added: “Christmas is a time to spend with loved ones and we’re proud to be working with Autism Wessex to host an event which promotes inclusivity at our centre.”

No pre-booking is required for the event; however, the centre’s restaurant will close at 5pm on this date.

For more information visit www.haskins.co.uk.