SCHOOLS across Wirral are being urged to encourage their pupils to be sponsored to 'Stay Awake All Night' for Wirral Autistic Society.

Friday June 20 has been suggested for the challenge, in aid of the society's £1m Lifetime Appeal.

The money raised will fund specialist living accommodation for adults with autism – the first project of its kind in the north west. The appeal has so far raised just over £500,000.

The idea came about after pupils at Whitby High School stayed awake all night and raised £1,163 for the society with the same sum go to a local cancer research charity.

Wirral Autistic Society's chief executive, Robin Bush, said: "Individuals with autism often suffer with disturbed sleep so this fund-raising initiative is especially relevant.

"I would like to say a huge thank you to all those taking part and wish them the very best of luck."

Rick Myers, the society's fundraiser, said: "We decided to launch this project in April as it is World Autism Awareness Month.

"The pupils at Whitby High had great fun staying awake all night and it is a really unusual fun way of raising money.”

Further details of the project are available from Rick on 07887 631218.

The Merebrook pub in Bromborough celebrates its 50th birthday on Friday, April 25 with a fund-raising night for the Lifetime Appeal.

The society's award-winning band The Beathoven's will be playing live and there will be a disco and quiz.

Andrew Williams who has been involved in the running of the pub for the past 25 years said: "The society are our neighbours so it is nice to help them out.

"I'll be telling people about the pub's history from when it first opened and a pint cost less than 10p! Everybody will be welcome on the night."