THE dedicated director of a centre which offers care and support to autistic people and their families has been hailed as 'the light at the end of a very dark tunnel'.

Toni Mullally, who runs Hillingdon Autistic Care and Support (HACS), has been nominated in the community champion category in this year's Local Hero awards.

She was put forward by Yvonne Langdon, of Haig Road, Hillingdon, whose 11-year-old son Ryan was diagnosed with autism two years ago.

Mrs Langdon, 42, who also has an eightyear-old daughter, Geraldine, said: "When my son was diagnosed with autism it felt like our lives had been turned upside down.

"Suddenly, you feel as if your life is in limbo, so many things change.

"Ryan's behaviour can be very unpredictable - you need eyes in the back of your head - plus his sleeping patterns are erratic and his diet is different.

"It was such a shock to discover the news and very difficult to come to terms with. We have good and bad days, but sometimes it feels like an uphill struggle.

"Toni does so much to keep autism in the public eye and works tirelessly to highlight the cause.

"She is always hosting workshops, fun days and play schemes, and she also encourages parents to communicate with each other by organising regular social events.

"She has been instrumental at meetings when we need someone to make a stand and speak on our behalf about autism. Whatever situation we find ourselves in, we can rely on her, whether it be to explain a letter or offer advice.

"She is a mother of four and has her own life to lead, but she never complains or makes you feel like a burden.

"Her attitude towards her work and autism in general is inspirational. She once said in a speech at a meeting that, even if there was a cure, she wouldn't want to change a child that has autism, as that's the world they know.

"Most importantly, though, Toni just makes us feel normal. Sometimes it feels like it's us against the world, and she really has been the light at the end of the tunnel."

Mrs Mullally, 48, of Darries Close, Yeading, has been director of HACS for nine and a half years. "It is so sweet of Yvonne to nominate me, but I am mindful of the fact that I get paid to do my job, and I really couldn't do it without the help of the volunteers; it really is a team effort," she said.

"One of my daughters, Eleanor, has autism and I know only too well that many parents can feel isolated and excluded from society, especially if their child is in a mainstream school. For example, some tell me their child has never been invited to a tea party.

"Many have a limited awareness of autism and feel that they have no choice other than to just get on with things, so we take pride in educating people and offering advice to make their lives a little bit easier.

"A lot of people tell me they feel they could not have survived without the help of HACS, which makes us all feel extremely proud, and my thanks go to all the volunteers who have made the project a success."

LOCAL HEROES - THE CATEGORIES

There are five categories in this year's competition:

Outstanding Young Person: Anyone aged 16 or under who has made an outstanding achievement or impressive effort, supported others or enthusiastically taken part in sports or an event.

Star Carer: Someone who has selflessly looked after a friend, relative, neighbour, or others.

Community Champion: An individual, group or organisation which has helped or supported the community.

Courageous Citizen: Someone who has triumphed over adversity, achieved something against the odds, or shown courage or determination.

Fabulous Fundraiser: An individual, group, organisation or business which has raised money for a deserving cause.