Two former regional press chiefs have taken up roles with an autism charity.

Former Trinity Mirror managing director Bob Cuffe and ex-Northern Echo editor Peter Barron have been unveiled as patrons of the North East Autism Society.

Bob, who served as MD for Trinity Mirror’s North-East region in two spells, first became aware of NEAS in the 1990s when his son Liam was diagnosed as autistic.

At the time, support for autistic children and their families was almost non-existent but Liam is now 29 and has been in residential care with the charity since 2016.

Bob, pictured, told the Darlington-based Echo: “Liam is living his best life. He’s happy, safe and a very settled part of the NEAS family – as well as our own.

“The care during the Covid-19 pandemic was exceptional and I no longer worry about Liam and his future.

“I am genuinely delighted – and humbled – to be asked to be a patron of NEAS.

“If I can help the charity in any way, it will be a privilege and, if he could speak, Liam would certainly echo my support.”

Bob and Peter join artist Mackenzie Thorpe and former ITV News Tyne Tees and Border presenter Pam Royle as pareons of NEAS.

Peter said: “Having supported NEAS with its public relations over the past six years, I have come to appreciate what an outstanding, passionate, and caring organisation it is.

“It is, therefore, an honour to become part of such a great team of patrons.”

NEAS chief executive John Phillipson added: “It is an absolute joy to have four such fantastic ambassadors for the North-East as our patrons.

“They have all achieved so much in their lives and it is hugely exciting to be able to tap into the wealth of experience, ability and unrivalled connections they bring to our charity as we expand our services across the region.”