Published: Wednesday, 30th June, 2010 5:00pm

Irish Autism Action mobile phone appeal

Irish Autism Action and Keith Duffy will launch a mobile phone recycling campaign in Westmeath on August 2 as part of the '32 County Marathons Challenge '.

With the help of BPI Telecom and Expert Group, Irish Autism Action is asking people in Westmeath to donate their old mobile phones to raise money and awareness of autism in Ireland.

Long distance runners Gerry Duffy and Ken Whitelaw will begin the 32 County Marathons challenge on Friday, July 2 in Longford from where they will go on to run 32 marathons in 32 counties in 32 consecutive days.

The marathon will take place in Westmeath on August 2. Charmaine Kenny, the outgoing Rose of Tralee and Tommy Carr will also take part in the Westmeath marathon.

"Autism is a disability involving the development of the brain that affects people's communication and social interaction skills," commented Mullingar man Kevin Whelan who is the CEO of Irish Autism Action.

"Mobile phones are one of the biggest communication devices around today, and by recycling them at your local Expert store you can help us be a voice for those who have none. Every €500 raised takes a child off the waiting list for education services."

Irish Autism Action is a national charity providing a range of services to families affected by autism, as well as supporting 13 schools for children with autism across the country.

Irish Autism Action services in Westmeath include Scoil Na Maighdine Mhuire, Mullingar; Saplings Mullingar, and Westmeath A and Westmeath B, National Council for Special Education.

For more information on this appeal please email Kevin Whelan at kevin@autismireland.ie or call 044 933 1609.