The tenth anniversary service of Autism Sunday has been declared a success by the organisers.

Up to 150 people packed into St Alban’s Church in King’s Road, Romford on Sunday February 12 to raise awareness of autism.

Founder of the event, Ivan Corea said: “It was fantastic.

“It was such a wonderful service and it was very moving.”

The service was led by Father Roderick Hingley and it also included a speech from Romford MP Andrew Rosindell who paid tribute to families and adults with autism.

While the service was going on, the children and young people with autism took part in an art workshop making six banners, before taking part in a procession in the church.

Other attendees included The Bishop of Chelmsford Right Reverend Stephen Cottrell, Anne Myatt, CEO of the Romford Autistic Group Support, Mark Baster and Trustee of the UK Autism Foundation, Romford recording artiste Helen Yousaf and her band.

Ivan said; “The event is getting bigger every year and this year’s event was the best that we have ever had.”

Ivan set up the service in 2002 with his wife Charika after they were inspired by their 16-year-old son Charin.

It started as a small idea in the front room of their home and in ten years it has turned into a huge global event, celebrated in many countries.

Ivan said: “I am already looking forward to next year’s service, we rely on a lot of support from people and the Right Reverend Stephen Cottrell was so impressed by the service that he says that he is going to spread the news in the church community.”

For more information visit www.autismsunday.co.uk