A HOLIDAY retreat for people with autism and Asperger’s Syndrome will pitch its business ideas to Sir Richard Branson.

The Sanctuary Retreat in Hastings is owned by Maggie Sullivan who is on the autistic spectrum herself.

She is also the carer of two children with Asperger’s and has used her practical skills and attention to detail to help get her idea off the ground.

The holiday let business was originally established in the late 1940s by her grandparents, but fell into decline following a fire at the property and subsequent stroke of her grandfather.

Her recent efforts to revive and re-establish the business have been met with great feedbacks not only from new guests – but former holidaymakers of her grandparents’ era.

She is now looking for the support of the Virgin Media Business brand to take it to the next level, and is eyeing a top prize of a £250,000 marketing campaign.

The Dragons’ Den-style competition Pitch to Rich has whittled thousands of ideas down to a semi-final list of just 150.

The next job for media tycoon Branson will be to select his 30 finalists, and Ms Sullivan will hope she is among those put forward in the “growth” category for her business to expand.

She said: “I’m passionate about keeping rural industry alive and The Sanctuary Retreat has been instrumental to that in the past.

“I believe those with learning difficulties and autism have a lot to offer the economy, with their unique skills, perseverance and their ability to think outside the box.

“The growth of our business will not only accelerate our ability to provide a much-needed service to regular holidaymakers and those with special needs in a rural area, but will also offer employment to others on the spectrum, who have a great deal to offer local businesses.

“If we are successful, it will be a huge boost for the business and for those with autism.

“My hope is that it will inspire others with hidden disabilities to consider following their dream and consider becoming an entrepreneur.”