CATHERINE Fookes MP for Monmouthshire recently invited local community champion Tracy Rowland to attend a St David’s Day Reception at 10 Downing Street.

Tracy is the founder of Ready Steady Go, a Monmouthshire-based charity that supports autistic children and their families across the county.

Ahead of the reception at 10 Downing Street, Tracy was also given a personal tour of the Houses of Parliament.

Tracy was also recognised in the new Year Honours with a British Empire Medal for services to children and young people with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

In a Facebook post after the event, Tracy Rowland, said: “What an absolute honour and fabulous evening. A massive thank you to Catherine Fookes MP for inviting me to the St David’s Day Reception at No 10 Downing Street, preceded by a personal tour of the Houses of Parliament.

“Catherine was the absolute hostess with the mostess- never leaving my side and introducing me to everyone so kindly. Our charity name was spread far and wide...”

Catherine Fookes MP added: “It was a pleasure to invite Tracy to Westminster for the St David’s Day Reception at No.10 - we had a fantastic evening.

“Tracy does incredible work for the community through Ready Steady Go, supporting autistic children and their families across Monmouthshire.

“She thoroughly deserves all the recognition she’s receiving for the huge positive difference she makes in our community.”

The charity was founded after Tracy’s son Coby was diagnosed with autism at the age of eight and began to find daily life increasingly challenging.

Ready Steady Go was set up to support other families in similar situations, giving children additional needs a place to relax in a safe and understanding environment. They operate groups all over the country, including Magor and undy and Abergavenny.