Captain Tom-inspired Sunderland teenager publishes charity book

Plane-loving Jack Berry was inspired by Captain Tom

Jack Berry and his cousin Maisie collected more than £2,000 for Sunderland Royal Hospital at the start of the coronavirus pandemic, following in the steps of the Second World War veteran with their own step challenge.

And now Jack is hoping to raise even more for good causes with the release of a charity book backed by a Formula One driver and one of the RAF’s top pilots.

Proud mum Sara said: “For Jack it’s been very emotional, we didn’t realise how many people had been actively supporting and helping us, but we’ve managed to not just make a book about planes and cars, we’ve also made a book about communities.

“When you hear a diagnosis of autism you can think the worst, but through this we’ve been able to see a totally different side to Jack.

“A lot of people have taken this to their hearts and given them inspiration, especially other children who are autistic.”

McLaren racing driver Lando Norris is among those who have contributed to the book, as well as Squadron Leader Adam Collins of the Red Arrows, the RAF’s aerobatic display team and regulars at the Sunderland International Airshow.

The project features pictures by Jack, a pupil at Wearside’s Barbara Priestman Academy, with commentary added by figures connected to the technology depicted, including Spitfires, Sea Harriers, Chinooks and the McLaren MCL35.

Proceeds are expected to be donated to organisations including the International Bomber Command Centre, the Lincolnshire Lancashire Association and the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association.

The book was released as an e-book late last month, closely followed by a print version, which is available to buy online.

“It’s been an interesting project for my company,” said Simon Heporth, of publisher Bomber Command Books.

“This is the first book of this type we’ve published, a collection of art, and we’ve been very impressed by the standard of Jack’s work.”

Visit www.bombercommandbooks.com to find out more about the book and the charities being supported by the proceeds.

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