A west Cumbrian autism charity has been able to buy a much-needed van thanks to a generous donation.

Bee Unique is the vision of Nadia Shaw and Dave Parsons who are parents and carers to two non verbal boys, both diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Condition with Associated Learning Difficulties.

The charity supports families in a similar situation, creating safe, sensory learning and stimulation through organising events, trips and social gatherings.

They were delighted to be given £26,669 by the Cumberland and Westmorland Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons in association with The Mark Benevolent Fund of Mark Grand Lodge.

Mason Ken Archer said: "We were delighted to be able to help the charity when we heard it was struggling to transport its equipment around the county to events.

"The van will enable them to transport soft play and inflatables such as slides and bouncy castles around Cumbria and North Lancashire to be used at events which they have organised or to which they have been invited.

"They are extremely grateful to the Masons for their generosity.

"The logos were put on the van free of charge as the garage which supplied the vehicle had just started an employee who is on the autistic spectrum and is training in signwriting."