Children at a Hitchin nursery were all smiles on Tuesday as they took part in a sponsored run for National Autism Awareness Day.

The Comet: Staff and pupils at York Road Nursery take part in a charity run to raise money for Autism. Picture: DANNY LOOStaff and pupils at York Road Nursery take part in a charity run to raise money for Autism. Picture: DANNY LOO (Image: ©2019 Archant)

York Road Nursery School took on the challenge to raise money for equipment to help children with autism and sensory needs.

They managed to raise £1,600 last year, with staff hopeful that they will have raised even more this time around.

“This year the fundraising will go towards saving for a sunken trampoline that will provide sensory experiences for children with autism and additional needs,” said headteacher Diane Frainer.

“York Road Nursery School is passionate about working with children with special educational needs and disabilities, and pride themselves on providing outstanding care and education for all children.

The Comet: Staff and pupils at York Road Nursery take part in a charity run to raise money for Autism. Picture: DANNY LOOStaff and pupils at York Road Nursery take part in a charity run to raise money for Autism. Picture: DANNY LOO (Image: ©2019 Archant)

National Autism Awareness Day is designed to raise public awareness and influence government decision making.

The Comet: The therapy dog at York Road Nursery takes part in a charity run to raise money for Autism. Picture: DANNY LOOThe therapy dog at York Road Nursery takes part in a charity run to raise money for Autism. Picture: DANNY LOO (Image: ©2019 Archant)

The Comet: York Road Nursery head teacher Diane Frainer takes part in a charity run with the children to raise money for Autism. Picture: DANNY LOOYork Road Nursery head teacher Diane Frainer takes part in a charity run with the children to raise money for Autism. Picture: DANNY LOO (Image: ©2019 Archant)

The Comet: The therapy dog at York Road Nursery takes part in a charity run to raise money for Autism. Picture: DANNY LOOThe therapy dog at York Road Nursery takes part in a charity run to raise money for Autism. Picture: DANNY LOO (Image: ©2019 Archant)