The starting gun on the charity partnership was fired at the Belfast City Marathon, with barristers running the full marathon in support of the charity’s vital work.

Mark Conlon BL, chair of the Bar’s charity committee, said: “We are overwhelmed, but not surprised by, the generosity shown by members in supporting our first fundraising event for the National Autistic Society NI.

“This is a fantastic reflection of the depth of support that exists for the charity right across the Bar. We look forward to harnessing that support with a range of fundraising events throughout the year.”

Shirelle Stewart, the charity’s chief executive, added: “We are delighted by the news that Bar NI has raised nearly £15,000 doing the marathon for the National Autistic Society NI. Times are really hard at the minute and charities are also struggling to bring in money so this will make an enormous difference to our charity.

“We provide much needed services for autistic people and their families from our Autism Centre in Carryduff and throughout Northern Ireland and this money will help us to continue with our support. A massive thank you.”

The next fundraising event the Bar will undertake is the Causeway Coast Challenge, a 20-kilometre walk along the top of the Giant’s Causeway.

The walk provides teams with stunning views of the iconic rock formations below, participants will also pass a Game of Thrones set location (Renly Baratheon’s Camp), Ballintoy Harbour (also used as a backdrop in Game of Thrones), Elephant Rock and Dunseverick Castle, which was built in around 500 AD.

The Bar is continuing to welcome donations for the National Autistic Society NI through JustGiving.