AUTISM campaigner Anna Kennedy OBE and actor Mark Benton have more in common than being awarded honorary degrees from Teesside University.

She is a former dance teacher and her recent anti-bullying poster has been supported by his Strictly Come Dancing stars.

When her sons Patick, now 23, and Angelo, now 20, were turned away from mainstream education, she remortgaged her home to set up a school for other autistic children.

Since Hillingdon Manor school near London opened in 1999 she has set up a second specialist school, a college and a respite home for adults.

Ms Kennedy is returning home to Middlesbrough on Wednesday to be made an honorary doctor in professional achievement.

As the founder of ‘Autism’s Got Talent”, the first show of its kind which encourages children and adults to perform on stage in front of packed audiences, the tap dancer is now looking to find a suitable venue on Teesside.

“People with autism shouldn’t be hidden,” said the 53-year-old who now lives in London. "There’s nothing to be ashamed of. I want all children, including my own boys, to have the chance to make a mark on the world just like everybody else.”

Her latest campaign, to tie in with Anti-Bullying week, is a poster featuring her youngest son with the words 'Angelo has severe autism and epilepsy, a sensory processing disorder. Can you tell by looking at the photo? Autism is a hidden disability. Please give us a break!'

With almost 46,000 followers on Twitter, the poster soon went viral and has been backed by famous supporters, including Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer, Kristina Rihanoff, judge Bruno Tonioli and his former counterpart, legendary choreographer Arlene Phillips.

Unfortunately, however, Mrs Kennedy will not be twirling up the graduation procession with Mark Benton as he is not being made honorary doctor of letters until next Tuesday.

The actor, who was born in Guisborough and grew up in Grangetown, survived the dreaded dance-off on the hit BBC 1 programme for the third week running on Sunday night.

“Dance has taught me so much and it is great for children with autism and it helps with flexibility, teaches listening skills and is great for their imagination,” she added.

“It is my dream to go on Strictly, I would love it. It would be the best respite ever.”

For more information about Anna Kennedy’s autism campaigns visit annakennedyonline.com.