AN organisation supporting people living with autism has been chosen as Wirral Chamber of Commerce's Charity of the Year.

Autism Together, established nearly 50 years ago, is one of the leading providers of services and support to people and families affected by autism.

The award-winning Wirral charity employs a thousand people across the region.

Chief executive Robin Bush said the partnership with Wirral Chamber would help raise awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by those with autism in day-to-day life.

He continued: "I am absolutely delighted at this news.

"We've always prided ourselves on being an 'at heart of the community' charity and to have over 650 members of the Chamber lending us their support this year is a real boost.

"I'm really excited at the programme of events we have planned and can’t wait for what’s in store."

Paula Basnett, chief executive of Wirral Chamber of Commerce said she was impressed by the charity's community fundraising efforts and its work supporting children, young people and their families.

She added: "Working together will enable our staff and our Chamber members to understand more about autism by meeting with people with the condition."

The charity, which was founded in 1968 and originally called Wirral Austistic Society, has received more than a dozen awards in the last four years in recognition of its high quality services.

Autism is puzzling even to experts, and although it was first identified in 1943, there are still many myths surrounding the disorder.

Public understanding of the condition is therefore crucial in order to improve the lives of people with autism throughout the UK.