A YOUNGSTER bullied and misunderstood because of a medical condition which affects his behaviour has become the inspiration behind a brand new book.

Eight-year-old Jacob Brownson, of Ulverston, lives with a form of Autism Spectrum Disorder, which in the past has caused him to be branded 'naughty' and told by complete strangers that he 'needs a slap'.

Now his mum, Deborah, has joined forces with Endmoor artist Ben Mason, who also has a form of the condition, to pen a book which they hope will dispel some of the myths.

"The title of the book, He's Not Naughty, came about because people have been very quick to make judgment," explained Deborah.

"They've said things like: 'If he was my child I'd just give him a slap'.

"I realised I couldn't go around arguing with everyone who gave him a disapproving look so I decided to write the book to explain it a bit better."

Deborah was put in touch with Ben, 21, through a mutual acquaintance, and he jumped at the chance to draw upon his own experiences to illustrate the work.

"When I saw the first few pages I realised it was a really in-depth and good description," explained the University of Central Lancashire illustration graduate.

"There was a very personal reason why I wanted to do it and I hope it helps people understand the condition better."

Deborah explained that Jacob, her youngest of two sons, was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome when he was around 18 months old.

Throughout his young life he has struggled being touched and his brain is ill-equipped to cope with the sights and sounds of everyday life - and something as simple as a motorbike whizzing past or a dog barking can cause him to have a 'meltdown'.

But despite the diagnosis Deborah claims he was bullied by classmates at his old school which led to her quitting as a civil litigation solicitor so she could educate him at home.

Now he is at a new school and is 'thriving'.

But Jackie Mason, mother of Ben, said he also battled against judgment as a child, as others failed to grasp that he was under the grips of a neurological condition.

They now hope the book will be a useful tool for children with the condition, as well as friends, families, teachers and others who want a greater understanding of what it entails.

"I hope it stops another child being treated how Jacob has been," added Deborah.

"He has a disability and it cannot be punished out of him, no matter what some people think."

For more information visit www.hesnotnaughty.co.uk