A community event organised by a charity that helps autistic children has cancelled its fundraising event over the Bank Holiday weekend over the recent unrest in the region.
Daisy Chain, based in Stockton, had planned to stage its yearly Daisy Festival on Monday, August 26, but announced on Wednesday (August 14) that the event wouldn't be going ahead.
The charity, which supports over 8000 autistic adults and children, cited the recent unrest in the region for the decision to cancel the event - saying that the community "needs time to heal".
Over the last ten days, unrest in Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Sunderland, and several other locations across the North East, saw police pelted with bricks and missiles, cars and buildings set on fire, and businesses damaged.
In a statement on its social media page, Daisy Chain said: "It is with a heavy heart that we must announce the cancellation of this year’s Daisy Festival.
"This cherished event has grown into a cornerstone of our community, and its absence this year is a profound loss to us all."
It goes on to say: "Over 8,000 autistic children and adults rely on our support each year, and the recent unrest in the country has led us to expand our services to meet the growing needs of our community.
"We believe that now, more than ever, our community needs time to heal and strengthen. By postponing this event, we are allowing that healing process to continue, so we can return stronger and more united next year."
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Despite cancelling the event, which has been happening for 20 years, the charity has set up a Just Giving page in an attempt to raise funds.
It has set itself a target of £15,000.
The statement from the charity concluded: "While we share your disappointment, we hold onto hope for brighter days ahead. We encourage families to enjoy the summer and remind those with neurodivergent children that our family support team is always here for you. You are not alone; together, we will overcome these challenges."
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