A TRIO of celebrity chefs are giving a boost to a breakfast campaign in support of World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.

Autism Wessex launched its Big Brekkie campaign to support the national day when autism organisations around the world host unique fundraising and awareness-raising events.

Former Masterchef winner Mat Follas attended the charity event at the Casterbridge Hotel in Dorchester where he has his restaurant, along with Lesley Waters, who regularly appears on television and runs a cookery school in Dorset.

Alex Aitken, chef patron at The Jetty in Christchurch also took part.

Each chef will be contributing their own recipe ideas as part of the fundraising pack available to all participants.

Becky Chalk, community and events fundraiser at Autism Wessex, said: “One of the great reasons to hold a Big Brekkie is that you have the freedom to tailor the event to suit you.

“We wanted to find something which took the hassle factor out of fundraising and put the fun, and the food, back in.”

She also urged anyone who can hold a Big Brekkie event to do so in the charity’s name to help raise awareness and vital funds. Full fundraising packs will include invitations, flyers, recipes and more.

Corporate sponsor Williams Thompson Solicitors LLP has donated £1,000 to the event to support people affected by autism across the Wessex region.

Suzanne Kadziola, practice manager and partner of the company, said: “Our relationship with Autism Wessex has been a great success over the years and we very much look forward to getting involved in the Big Brekkie this year.”

To get involved, visit the autismwessex.org.uk/bigbrekkie, or contact the charity on 01202 703198.