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Caerphilly town’s mayor has announced he will be raising money for an autism charity during his current term.

Cllr Mike Prew, who has been re-elected as town mayor by Caerphilly Town Council, has announced AP Cymru as his chosen charity for the next year.

The charity, which stands for Autism Puzzles, was founded by parents with first-hand experience of the challenges presented by neurodivergent children.

Speaking after the monthly town council meeting at the Twyn Community Centre, Cllr Prew said: “Though a relatively new charity, they have supported thousands of children, young people and their families.”

He added : “The town council can feel proud of the support its been able to give local charities over the years raising thousands of pounds, and I will be doing my best to raise as much as we can over the next year for AP Cymru.”

Cllr Dave Roberts, Caerphilly Town Council’s deputy mayor, said: “The commitment of the charity in providing information, organising workshops and just providing a safe place is second to none. You quickly realise that they know what they are talking about as they are experiencing the challenges themselves.”

AP Cymru’s fundraising officer, Mel Davies, described the link with the town council as “an amazing opportunity” for the charity.

They continued: “Neurodiversity has gained much more press and awareness in recent months but we have a lot of work to do to reach neuro-inclusion for all. 

“Though some families have neurodivergent children that face undeniable challenges, it should be also celebrated as a unique and wonderful way of thinking and seeing the world.”