Hundreds have a 'muddy' good time to raise vital charity cash

Hundreds of charity champions stepped out for the Sunderland Scramble

Charity champions turned out in force to take part in a family-friendly 5k obstacle course in aid of the North East Autism Society (NEAS) at Herrington Country Park in Sunderland on Saturday.

More than 650 people went the extra mile to complete a gruelling 10 obstacle course - including a spiders web, tyre challenge, hill climb, a water slide and a sand bag carry - to raise all-important awareness and cash for the charity.

Wearsiders were on the slide to help raise vital charity funds

Competitors didn't mind a bit of mud as they set out to do plenty of good.

The weekend spectacular is already brought in a fantastic haul of over £8,000 for NEAS - with donations still flooding in.

Organisers have set their sights on hitting a £10,000 landmark in the charity extravaganza.

Participant Hayley Stevenson, from Blaydon who celebrated her 34th birthday by taking part in the event said: "I’ve had so much fun, it’s been a great day I can’t think of a better birthday present than raising awareness of autism.”

Competitors were determined to overcome all obstacles in a tough charity challenge

Sophie Clarke, Sunderland Scramble organiser and fundraiser for NEAS, said: “This is the first event of it’s kind in the region for families and we can’t thank everyone enough for all their support.

“Money raised from the event will help support toddler groups for children with autism and vital family support services across the North-east.

“Families dealing with autism have to navigate obstacles in everyday life all the time, this is our way of standing with them and showing support.

“We’re starting to see individual totals coming in now via Just Giving and so far over £8,000 has been raised. With more funds pledged, I’m sure we’ll reach over a five figure fundraising target.

"Together we can change the lives of people with autism in the North-east."