AUTISM Wessex is urging the local community to donate handbags to help out with its latest fundraising drive.

The charity, which offers help and support to people affected with autism and associated difficulties across the Wessex region, will host a ‘Bags by the Beach’ event to raise some much-needed funds for the organisation.

Becky Chalk, community and events fundraiser, said: “We have had success in sourcing some really desirable handbags, but we are still in need of people’s pre-loved bags to raise vital funds for the charity on the night. People are welcome to drop any gently used bags into our Dorchester or Christchurch offices or at our corporate supporter Basepoint Bournemouth’s offices near Hurn, who have kindly agreed to match fund the event.”

The charity’s Bags by the Beach event will take place on Thursday, October 8 from 7pm at Aruba, overlooking Bournemouth Pier.

The evening has been kindly sponsored by Williams Thompson Solicitors LLP.

Covering all event costs this enables all money raised from the event to support those affected by autism across the region.

In addition Basepoint Bournemouth will match the final sum raised, effectively doubling the proceeds of the event.

Hosting the event at a new venue this year, Aruba in Bournemouth promises to provide a evening of relaxed shopping and pampering.

Becky added: “We have everything in place to host a really enjoyable fundraising evening and ask the local community to give us a helping hand in the run up to the event to ensure it is a huge success, with a target fundraising figure of £5,000. Donations are key to this success so please give generously and come to support us on the night.”.

The charity’s Portfield School in Parley and Fab Frocks in Westbourne will also accept handbag donations on behalf of Autism Wessex.

Tickets cost just £10 and include a drink on arrival as well as free entry into the seaside prize draw for a chance to win a bottle of bubbly.

For more information on the event and to purchase your tickets visit autismwessex.org.uk/event_calendar/view/bags-by-the-beach