SALE based charity Hearts and Minds Challenge, which supports people affected by autism, has a new patron in the shape of X factor winner Shayne Ward.

Shayne will be helping to spread more awareness for the Sale based charity, which helps families with children with autism.

Shayne has had first hand experience of autism as his nephew has been diagnosed with the condition.

Founder of Hearts & Minds Challenge Ian McGrath said: “We are very privileged to have a great bunch of patrons who fully support the work we do. Our patrons are not just a face of the charity, they are actively involved in raising awareness and helping to raise funds to help us continue our work in supporting families during times of crisis.”

* Anyone interested in finding out about the work of Hearts and Minds Challenge should visit heartsandmindschallenge.org