THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised for Worcester-based charity which supports people with Asperger's syndrome.

ASPIE, based in Sansome Walk, was approached by Sainsbury St John’s at the start of last year to apply to be their charity of the year for 2015-2016.

Volunteers were delighted that the supermarket's customers chose to support them and Sophie Stanford, the store's PR ambassador, invited the group over to the store for tea and cakes and presented a cheque for over £4,000.

It brought the total raised to almost £6,000.

Julia Micklewright, chair of ASPIE, said: "Sophie and her team worked tirelessly arranging fundraising weekends, Xbox games nights, attending Friends of ASPIE meetings etc.

"The fundraising weekends enabled us to reach out to many aspies, parents and families letting them know that they have their own centre in Worcester where their uniqueness is valued as well as recognizing the challenges of living with Asperger's.

"Our football team ASPIE Avengers FC now play regular friendlies with Sainsbury’s own team.

"All of these activities have been excellent for increasing understanding between people with Asperger’s and the neurotypical world.

"ASPIE is a small charity and we do not receive any statutory funding.

"Our members need routine and predictability so it is essential that we have a safe and permanent venue.

"This donation will contribute to this and the activities we provide which improve the quality of life for more than 60 members and their families from all over Worcestershire and beyond."

For more info on ASPIE visit aspie.org.uk.