THOUSANDS of pounds are needed to open a second autism care home in North Yorkshire.

Clare Ballam and her husband Roy, of Sowerby, have already helped to create Green Gables, a group home for four people with autism in their area. That opened in spring 2000.

Now the couple, who have an adult autistic son, Richard, are hoping to replicate the project in the Scarborough area to support parents who are caring for autistic children.

Plans to open a day care facility in the Hambleton area are also being considered.

Mrs Ballam said: "There needs to be more carers who are trained in depth. People with autism can't be slotted anywhere. It is a unique impairment - a special need within special needs."

Plans for a second home in Scarborough are well under way and Golden Lane Housing, a registered charity, has already pledged £16,000 towards the purchase of a suitable property. The National Autistic Society has also been appointed to train staff.

An estimated £160,000 is still needed. Anyone able to help with fundraising is asked to contact Mrs Ballam on (01845) 523529.