Stevenage MP Stephen McPartland provided some assistance to the hardy fishermen who held a 24-hour fishing event to raise money and awareness of autism. Carping4Charity, led by Chairman Mark Clifford-Smith, has been raising money for a few years, now based at Fairlands Valley Park. This year they raised £463.50 for The National Autistic Society.

Stephen McPartland MP said, "I am always delighted to support local events and proud of how many people get involved to help others in our community. Mark and his friends are making a big difference by raising money but, most importantly, the understanding of autism."

Mark Clifford-Smith, Chairman of Carping4Charity, said, "This year's charity is close to my heart due to one of my nieces having autism and my nephew awaiting to be diagnosed. Also one of our young fishermen is autistic, and since doing these events we have helped him a lot with his social skills and being more independent, and to find himself something that he can focus on really well - he now fishes all the time!

"I know first hand at how hard it can be for some families, the struggles they deal with, what they have to go through on a daily basis and not to have anyone to turn to for help when needed. We hope the money raised will help improve a family's life and make things that bit easier for them."

Carping4Charity are already planning a similar event for next year, in aid of the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance.

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