An annual charity cricket match, in its fifth year, is raising money for children with autism this Sunday.

Since the first match was held in 2009, this event has raised around £15,000 for different charities including the Great Ormond Street Hospital. 

This year, the founding group of friends are giving all proceeds of the match and mini-fair, held at Low Hall Sports Ground in South Access Road, Walthamstow, to the National Autistic Society.

Co-founder, Angie Hamid, 36, of Garner Road, Walthamstow, has a six-year-old daughter who was diagnosed with autism three years ago.

This means that daughter, Freya, finds it difficult to play with other children and to express herself verbally.

Mrs Hamid said: “She doesn’t understand how to play with other children.

“She has speech but she doesn’t tend to use it.

“She can’t really tell us what’s wrong or where it hurts.”

Despite these challenges, Freya is a lively girl who “loves everything.”

Mrs Hamid said: “She’s a fantastic little girl.

“She’s cheeky, she’s fun and she’s full of energy and she absolutely loves school.”

The National Autistic Society helped Mrs Hamid’s family to get a disabled therapist who has made life a lot easier for the whole family.

Mrs Hamid said: “They’ve helped us to coax Freya to come out in her own time and say what she needs.”

The friendly cricket match hopes to raise £2,000 for the charity through player fees and proceeds from activities and stalls on the day.

The match and mini-fair complete with bouncy castle, face painting and a raffle, is free to attend and starts at 12.00pm.

To donate to Mrs Hamid’s campaign, visit http://www.justgiving.com/Angie-Hamid