A POPULAR barber has been given an award in recognition of the work he does for people with autism.

Zack Noun, who works at Broadway Barbers in Woodford Green, has been presented with an award by the South Woodford-based UK Autism Foundation (UKAF).

Autism campaigner Ivan Corea, who set up the UKAF after his 15-year-old son Charin was diagnosed with the condition in 2000, made the presentation today (April 11).

Mr Corea said: “Having a haircut can be a difficult experience for a child or adult with autism.

“When Zack started cutting the hair of people with autism he didn't know anything about the condition, he just has this with way that helps them relax. He is kind, patient and understanding.”

This is the first year the charity has given out the awards, and comes shortly after the United Nation's World Autism Awareness Day, which took place on April 2.

The charity also presented an award to Punita Marwaha, a beauty therapist at Naina's Beauty Box in Snakes Lane East in Woodford Green, for the patience and care she has shown for with people with autism.