Flowers artist Peter Howson is set to complete a 300-mile hike from Aberdeen to Ayr to raise awareness of autism in the Spring. The artist was diagnosed with a form of autism, Asperger's Syndrome, in 2009 and his daughter Lucy, 27, is also severely autistic. Howson's partner, the former discus thrower Lorraine King, will accompany him for part of the walk, as well as other high-profile friends of the artist. The event has already attracted significant donations, including £50,000 from investment company Raven Russia. Howson will complete a series of sketches and drawings along the route, which includes dramatic scenery at the Aberdeen and Fife Coastal Paths, the Forth and Clyde Canal Walk, Clyde Walkway and the River Ayr Walk. However, the artist does not foresee a permanent switch from figurative to landscape painting.

If you would like to make a donation to this worthwhile cause, please visit the artist's JustGiving page.

www.scottishautism.org

Image Credit - James Glossop, The Times