The girls who work in the cosmetic department at Debenhams Portsmouth have been trying on their costumes ready to help the Hampshire Autistic Society.

The store will hold a style event next week where customers will get 20 per cent off everything.

There will also be a stand in store providing information on the society's services and events and a chance to win a fantastic cosmetic hamper each day.

Autism is a life-long development disability that affects the way a person communicates and relates to people.

Gemma Harvey, events fund-raiser for HAS, said: 'It's important to get support from big shops like Debenhams not only to raise funds but also to raise awareness.

'Because autism is not visible like someone in a wheelchair it sometimes can be overlooked.

'But it's estimated about 16,000 families in Hampshire are affected by autism so the services we provide are needed more and more.'

The society provides services including education, residential care and outreach support.

The event will take place at the store in Commercial Road from September 10 to 12.