MILFORD garden centre Squires has pieced together £1,240 in aid of Jigsaw School for pupils with autism spectrum disorders at Dunsfold Park.

Squire’s originally adopted Jigsaw as its charity of the year for 2015 to 2016 and then extended it to a second year.

Garden centre staff members raised the funds through initiatives including in-store collections, and a sponsored charity challenge, when they took turns on a static exercise bike. Staff also dressed in blue to raise awareness on World Autism Awareness Day.

Jigsaw pupils have already benefited from the store’s support with an exclusive preview of Squire’s 4D Christmas grotto, work experience opportunities for sixth-formers and class outings to boost social skills.

Milford manager Ricky Bowness said: “Jigsaw has been a great charity to work with. We have welcomed the opportunity to help raise awareness of autism and spread the word about the work they do. We’ve been delighted to welcome pupils to Squire’s on class outings and work experience visits.”

Sally Ward, Jigsaw community and events fundraiser, said: “Huge thanks go to Ricky Bowness and all his team for their tremendous support over the last two years. We have gained so much from a great working relationship.”