Charlie Houston, who has just turned six and lives with his family in Bradwell, has autism spectrum disorder, is non-verbal and has severe learning disabilities.

His parents launched an appeal in late 2025 to fund a bespoke-trained autism assistance dog, which they hoped would help keep him safe, reduce distress and give him more independence.

Charlie, six, is from Bradwell (Image: Supplied)

Now dad Dave says the community's response has been “unbelievable”.

“What a ride the past few months have been,” he said. “It snowballed – people have really taken it to their hearts.

"We have been so well supported locally.”

The total raised will go towards a dog trained through a specialist charity to meet Charlie’s specific needs, including intervening when he hurts himself.

Supporters have one last chance to get involved in fundraising celebrations, and the additional money will go towards covering the family's travel costs to and from the training facility.

A final event, Charlie Fest – A Cause for Paws, will be held at Pub on the Shrubs in Gorleston on May 2.

The dog would be trained to meet the family's bespoke needs (Image: Supplied)

There will be a children’s entertainer from 1pm to 2.45pm, followed by a line-up of local bands playing live music from 3pm until late.

Dave added: “We thank every individual that donated and shared online.

"We want to highlight efforts made from Scribbles nurseries, Valaris 248 oil rig, Darts Gear Competitions, Black Sheep Cricket Club, Caister coffee morning, The Rumbold Arms, Bar1, The Belle Vue, Pub on the Shrubs and Mariners Compass.

“We were also delighted with how everyone supported our Ollie’s fundraising tandem skydive jump, which was amazing.

“A huge thank you to all the organisers and people giving their time setting up and running events, and to the prize donors for the amazing raffle.

"We’ve been blown away by everyone’s kindness.”

© Eastern Daily Press