A pre-loved designer clothing sale takes place at Donaghadee Community Centre on Saturday, July 18, from 1pm to 3pm. Entry costs £1, with all admission proceeds going to the local autism support charity Tribe Ards & North Down.

The event, called Dee Does Vinted, has been organised by Donaghadee resident Joanne Moore. Moore said she was motivated to support the charity after helping to care for her twin nephews Archie and Alfie, born in 2021, who are awaiting formal diagnosis but display traits consistent with autism spectrum disorder.

Moore stated that the sale is intended to highlight the value of reusing items and to draw attention to the lack of support available to parents of children with special educational needs. She noted that her sister Nicky, the boys' mother, has faced difficulties securing adequate educational and health support and recently connected with Tribe for its community of other parents and carers.

Tribe Ards & North Down provides activities and peer support for families affected by autism. Ali Mooney, who has a child with autism and accesses the charity's services, said the organisation offers a vital lifeline by reducing isolation and providing opportunities such as cinema trips, a residential at Greenhill, and a visit to Emerald Park. She added that parenting an autistic child can be isolating due to practical challenges and social difficulties.

The charity invites donations and engagement via its website tribeautismsupport.org and its Facebook page.