A BLOGGER who writes about her life as the mother of an autistic child has won a national award.

Claire Parkinson of Southend Lane, Bellingham has only known for two years that her 11-year-old son, Giovanni Sarcone, suffers from Asperger’s syndrome - a type of autism which makes it difficult to socialise and communicate.

Just before he was diagnosed, Miss Parkinson started the blog, 'A boy with Asperger's', to document the highs and lows of her life bringing up Giovanni.

Last month she won the award for most inspirational blogger at the MAD (Mum and Dad) Blog Awards.

Miss Parkinson’s prize includes a two night stay at a luxury five-star hotel and a selection of Disney blu-ray DVDs for her kids to enjoy.

Speaking to News Shopper the mother of three said: “I was shocked but extremely pleased and humbled to win.

“It is good to know that my blog is inspirational and is helping other parents in similar situations to mine.”

The 29-year-old added: “Giovanni is very happy I’ve won, but he thinks it’s his award. He keeps telling me that if he didn’t have Asperger's then I wouldn’t have written the blog.

“He wants to keep it (the trophy) in his room and wants to keep all the DVDs to himself and not share them with his brother and sister.”

She added: “I never expected something like this would come out of my writing and I am just so glad that people are reading it.

“The prizes are great, but what I am most excited about is the glass trophy, I was like a child when I received it - I really didn’t expect it.”

To read 'A boy with Asperger's' visit aspergersinfo.wordpress.com

For more information on the MAD Blog Awards, visit the-mads.com