The National Autistic Society has secured a lottery grant to launch four monthly clubs in Northamptonshire for children aged 11 to 16 with Asperger syndrome.

Although Wellingborough, Irthlingborough, Kettering and Corby have been earmarked as potential hosts, Northampton could be chosen as a venue if demand is high enough.

Project officer Connie Chuda, said the clubs were an opportunity for autistic youngsters to develop valuable social skills.

She said: "Many young people with Asperger syndrome want to make friends but have little or no opportunity to socialise or access leisure facilities away from their families and the school environment.

"We want to make these youth clubs as much fun as possible so that the children look forward to coming and have a very positive experience," she added.

& To express an interest in the service or to help out as a volunteer, contact Connie Chuda on 0115 847 3539 or connie.chuda@nas.org.uk.