A CAR-MAD boy from Torfaen will receive a visit from a Canadian kart champion next month as part of a event raising awareness of autism.

Jack Pittas, of Canal Court, Griffithstown, hit the headlines in 2015 after winning a competition to take part in the eight-day European Eight-ball rally event in one of his favourite super cars.

But after sponsors pulled out of the event, Jack’s family were unable to raise the £2,000 petrol costs in time, putting the trip on hold.

Despite this, the 10-year-old car fan — who has Aspergers Syndrome — has met many of his racing heroes including Jason Plato, Rory Collingbourne and US rally driver Ken Block and regularly attends industry shows.

On Monday, March 13, he will meet the face of Canadian charity Racing with Autism, Austin Riley, who will visit Griffithstown School as part of a UK wide tour.

The visit will include a presentation based on the story of the 17-year-old Canadian, who overcame autism at a young age and achieved his dreams in competitive kart racing. During his Gwent visit, he will also spend time with Jack at Newport’s Supakart.

Jack's dad Robert Pittas, 45, of Pontnewydd, said: "Their aim is to show that although autism is a disability you can still achieve your dreams and goals.

"Jack was interviewed by a YouTube channel recently and they said he has done things that most adults can only dream of, including racing in the (Grand Prix) Nurburgring racetrack.

“If he’s happy then I will go out of my way to do it and it also gives him a future.”

Jack developed an interest in cars from a young age and picked the Italian sports car — a Lamborghini Aventador — for the rally last year.

He also has his own Facebook page – ‘Jack the Supercar Kid’ – and since his involvement with the rally event, he has received an influx of likes from as far away at Mexico and Japan.

In a message to parents with children on the autistic spectrum, Mr Pittas added: “Just stick with it and don’t give up. If anyone wants to speak to us about anything, get in touch.”

Mr Pittas added that a meeting with former Top Gear presenters Richard Hammond, James May and Jeremy Clarkson may also be on the cards in the future.

For more information search: @jackthesupercarkid on Facebook or visit: www.racingwithautism.com.