LITTLE Joshua Carter's smiling face betrays a difficult start to life.

He has autistic spectrum disorder diagnosis, which means he experiences difficulties with communication, interaction and imagination.

But with the love of his family and help from Swindon's Chalet School, he has become a cheerful, easy-going child.

Joshua, five, has been chosen as the symbol for this year's Evening Advertiser Christmas Appeal.

We are asking you to donate new toys and money so that children across the town can have a special Christmas.

The Chalet School in Queen's Drive will be among the groups to benefit from the appeal, which is being run in conjunction with Swindon Rotary Club.

Joshua's teacher Mel Finlay said: "He has a lovely smile and a wonderful personality."

CLICK HERE to make a donation online