HOME-educated children and their families and friends had a quacking time at a fundraising event in aid of the National Autistic Society.

Taunton mum and home educator Charlene Cousins came up with the idea of supporting National Rubber Duck Day on Saturday Her friend Nicola Tapp then suggested holding a chuck the duck event in the grounds of Weir Lodge, in Staplegrove Road, Taunton.

Participants had to throw their ducks as far as possible after decorating them, raising £84 for the NAS in the process.

Ms Tapp said: "With so many of our children on the autistic spectrum, home educators are really keen to raise awareness and funds for organisations like NAS, which campaigns for a better world for autistic people.

"Our children really thrive in home education because they are understood and accepted. They gain in self-confidence and self-esteem and learn at their own pace, free from anxiety and stress.”