Peter Johns, managing director of the prestigious investment bank, Rothschild, has so far raised over £82,000 for the National Autistic Society (NAS) by walking along the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. In August, Peter and his sons, Jack, 17, and Robert, 15, completed the 200-mile walk to raise vital funds for the NAS and to promote awareness of autistic spectrum disorders. As previously reported in the Observer, the fund-raising walk was dedicated to Peter's nine year old son, Harry, who has autism. Peter said: "It took us three weeks to complete the walk, which covered rough ground, continually rising and falling between valleys and cliffs. "We had mixed weather but were supported on our way by friends who joined us for part of the walk. "We are extremely grateful for all the generous donations that people have given. "The money raised will go towards helping the thousands of families who have children with autism and turn to the NAS for ongoing support." Peter encouraged donations by contributing up to £10,000 of his own money through an offer to match all personal donations of £50 or more. Amanda Ball, interim director of fund-raising and marketing for the NAS, said: "The NAS would like to thank Peter for all his determination and generous support. "He has raised a remarkable amount of money for the NAS which we will use to help provide vital services for families and individuals affected by autism, such as schools, day centres, residential services, our helpline and support programmes. "Around 535,000 people are affected by an autistic spectrum disorder in the UK and it is only through the support of individuals that we are able to reach families. Peter has made an outstanding gift to the NAS which will help us to continue our work." It is still possible to support Peter by giving direct at http://www.justgiving.com/walkingforharry">www.justgiving.com/walkingforharry or call the NAS on 08702 334 040.
