AN innovative school programme is helping a young boy overcome problems to realise his potential.

Jake Burgess, from Catterick, North Yorkshire, suffers from autism - a condition which leaves him isolated in a confusing world of colour and sound.

However, treatment in the US backed by an up-to-date approach by the Mowbray School, in Bedale, has resulted in him making significant progress.

Now, Jake can talk, enjoy a book, follow a tune and even ride a bike.

His mother, Claire, said: "He goes to the Mowbray School three times a week and he has come on in leaps and bounds.

Teacher David Sherratt is leading the school's programme, funded by North Yorkshire County Council.

It has been generating interest as far afield as India and Greece.

He said: "It's fairly intensive in that we have two teaching assistants, a speech therapist and myself working with five children, but it means we can recognise the individual trends of each pupil and their learning styles.

"We are simply looking at work done by other institutes around the world and then developing it."

For Jake's family, the results speak for themselves.

Mrs Burgess said: "We owe a lot to so many people - and particularly to volunteers Martin Elliott and Amy Cassar, who help with Jake when he's at home.

"It's been difficult at times but there's no doubt what we have been through is worthwhile."