A local business leader and semi-professional referee, has raised £1,250 for a regional autism support charity by walking 55 miles between different North East sports grounds.

Nathan Sherratt's sponsored trek took him from Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium to St James' Park in Newcastle, passing through Hartlepool, Chester-Le-Street, Sunderland and Gateshead.

He aimed to raise awareness for the Daisy Chain Project, a local non-profit organisation that provides support for autistic and neurodivergent individuals and their families.

Mr Sherratt said: "This walk has been very tough both physically and mentally, and also very rewarding.

Most read

Get the latest news, sports, and entertainment delivered straight to your device by subscribing to The Northern Echo here.

"I take pride in being the first ever autistic trustee on the board at Daisy Chain, as it is a cause close to my heart.

"Seeing the support from the community has been incredibly inspiring, as it has allowed me to contribute to the fantastic work Daisy Chain does.

"The journey started strong, especially the first leg from Middlesbrough to Hartlepool where I felt unstoppable despite the tough terrain.

"However, the 20-mile stretch to Chester-Le-Street was gruelling. Despite a slower pace, I succeeded in pushing through Sunderland and Gateshead.

"Every step was worth it."