A CLASSIC FM type concert is being held to raise money for an autism charity.

Abbots Langley Orchestra member Mrs Lynne Watkins whose son suffers from the condition, promises an evening of music at the St Lawrence Church, High Street, Abbots Langley, on Saturday that will appeal to all.

Rather than complete pieces the orchestra, which meets each Sunday, will play excerpts by popular composers.

Mrs Watkins from Gallows Hill, Abbots Langley said: "It is an informal evening concert. It is not a heavy music programme. We are local musicians who enjoy playing together playing the most famous bits from works that people like best.

The violin player said although the concert will be a fun event there is also the serious business of raising awareness of Autism and money for the charity The National Autistic Society.

Her 22-year-old son, Gavin, is taking a specialist course at Cannock College, Staffordshire, and Mrs Watkins said money raised will go to helping people like him and their families.

She said: "The Autistic Society employees support workers and sets up schools and gives employment training.

"Autism ranges from people with no speech to highly educated people, but they all have one thing in common. They need training to learn how to interact and communicate so they can get the best out of life.

"My son is in the middle of the spectrum. He will never be able to lead an independent life, but there are others who, because they get very focused, can have fantastic careers in things like computers."

The concert at St Lawrence Church, High Street, Abbots Langley, begins at 7.30pm on Saturday. Tickets available at the door are priced at £6 and £4 for concessions.

June 11, 2002 17:30