A principal was so inspired by a letter sent to her by autistic pupils from another school that she donated £300 to charity and took up their bowling challenge.

Debbie Warwick, Principal of the Francis Combe Academy, was sent a challenge by Jonathan, Ahmed and Ciaran from the Radlett Lodge School as part of a campaign to raise awareness about autism.

Not only did Ms Warwick send some of her students to Hollywood Bowl, she handed the Radlett Lodge trio a cheque for £300 to go towards their fundraising during World Autism Awareness Week.

Ms Warwick said: “Rarely do we get an opportunity like this and it was our pleasure to have hosted such an event at the academy.

“We have a non-uniform day every half term, raising money for very good causes and the next one will be for the disaster in Nepal.”

The letter explained how people with autism find it difficult to relate to others, and rely on structured activities – such as bowling – to cope in an unpredictable world.

Jo Galloway, Principal of Radlett Lodge School, said: "Our students really embraced the ethos and came up with the fantastic idea of engaging other students in the county via a friendly bowling match.

“It's also a great opportunity for them to develop their social skills and make contact with other people their age in the community.

“I hope that other schools are inspired by their message and take up their challenge to learn more about autism."