But Ross Thompson form Ashington did just that – and all in the name of charity.

The 28-year-old went under the needle to benefit the Toby Henderson Trust, which looks after his nine-year-old brother, who suffers from Asperger Syndrome.

This week Ross had the charity's logo tattooed on one wrist and an autism awareness ribbon on the other by Carlo at Dragon's Lair in Ashington.

So far the security officer, who works at Bedlington Magistrates' Court, has raised more than £600 in sponsorship by getting inked.

Ross said: "My nine-year-old brother is autistic – he's got Asperger Syndrome – and the Toby Henderson Trust looks after him, so I've seen first-hand the benefits.

"The work they do is very important.

"It helps kids with autism build their social understanding and helps them develop within themselves.

"A lot of parents with autistic kids end up splitting so it's really important that there are places like this to take the pressure off and give them a break as well as giving the kids a chance to develop socially."

The Toby Henderson Trust was started by Lesley Henderson, after she found that here was a lack of support for parents and children, when her son Toby was diagnosed with autism.

The charity's development centre is based at the Whitehouse Farm Centre in Stannington, near Morpeth.

As well as helping children develop their communication, interaction and attention skills, families are also given all-important support and counselling.

The children can also enjoy a sensory room, excursions, fun groups and social occasions.

The trust receives no Government funding and is reliant wholly on voluntary donations.

To support them, visit www.ttht.co.uk/donations
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