Stonham Barns owner Alan Forward raises almost £700 for National Autism Society with chest wax

The owner of Stonham Barns raised almost £700 for the National Autism Society, after having his chest waxed this month.

Venue owner Alan Forward was given the wax by staff at The Beauty Barn, after he was inspired to support the charity by his eight-year-old grandson Jack, who has autism and attends a specialist school in Sussex.

The fundraiser took place earlier this month to coincide with World Autism Awareness Week, and has so far collected £684 in donations.

“They told me that waxing is one of the more uncomfortable parts of the modern beauty regime,” said Alan. “Well, they were right, but I was happy to do it for a great cause and I’m delighted that so many people have helped us raise money for such a great cause.”

Terri Forward, Jack’s mum, added: “One of the key points is that it’s important to make people aware of the condition and what it means.

“Jack started showing signs of autism aged around three or four. We were not aware of what it meant and so we had to learn about it ourselves.

“It can have a huge effect on the person that has autism, but also on their family. Jack particularly struggles in loud places, such as supermarkets.

“Sometimes, it can be hard when people don’t understand that he’s not badly behaved. He just struggles in those places.”

Donations to the fundraiser are still being accepted by going to www.facebook.com/StonhamBarnsLV.