Dad takes part in London art project to raise autism awareness

Jul 8 2009 By Patricia Lewis

A DUMFRIES dad is taking part in a landmark art project in London to raise awareness of autism.

Byron Bartlett, whose 16-year old son has the condition will spend an hour standing on the famous fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square next Wednesday to promote the National Autistic Society Scotland (NAS) charity.

He will be just one of over 2,000 people who will occupy the plinth for an hour each over a period of 100 days for artist Antony Gormley’s One and Another project.

Byron, who is a part- time designer said: "I mostly just want to raise awareness. There are 200,000 people who have to live with autism every single day.

"What I want to do is represent people in Britain who have autism."

Although he is scared of heights Byron will face his fears to raise awareness of his chosen charity.

"I will be 24-foot high in the air. I’m scared of heights but my son overcame his fear so I will overcome mine.

"He is not sure about people he does not know very well but he did a radio interview and he was brilliant."

James will be accompanying him to London for the event.

Byron will be watering seeds that his son planted on the plinth.

The plants will be taken to places across Dumfries and Galloway and planted in various locations including Mabie Forest.

Raemond Charles, spokesperson for NAS Scotland, said: "Inspirational individuals such as Byron and James make a tremendous difference to the campaigning and awareness raising effort of the NAS in Scotland."

Byron can be watched live from 1pm next Wednesday at: www.oneandother.co.uk

Anyone who wishes to make a donation to the National Autistic Society can visit their website at www.autism.org.uk