THE Spinning Gate Shopping Centre in Leigh is marking World Autism Awareness week which starts tomorrow, Monday, by silencing its mall music every afternoon from 1pm to 5pm.

The centre is also encouraging its 40 retailers to back the awareness campaign to raise awareness for people living with autism.

Noise sensitivity can be a problem for autistic people so it is hoped the quieter environment will make it more friendly for them.

There will be signs around the centre to publish the times of when there will be no music at the centre.

Charity True Colours CIC in Leigh will also be hosting a performance in the centre on Thursday from 11am to 1pm.

People living with autism will be displaying their skills in Makaton sign language and singing.

Staff at the shopping centre have recently completed autism awareness training as well.

The centre is currently reviewing ways of supporting people living with autism by hosting regular music free periods.

Shopping centre manager Karen Cox said: "The centre team at Spinning Gate Shopping Centre have benefited from undertaking the autism awareness sessions and after discussions with True Colours CIC, autism awareness champions and Wigan Council.

"We are delighted to support the national initiative to raise awareness of Autism.

"We are extremely appreciative of the autism champions for providing the awareness sessions and are very much looking forward to working in partnership with them in future."