AN ENTERPRISING teenager is making a name for himself as a children’s entertainer, as his “incredibly proud” parents say he is finding his “niche” and building confidence.

Charlie Moore, 13, has set up his own business, entertaining children by dressing as his favourite comic book character, Spider-Man.

Living with autism and ADHD, Charlie’s mum Jenny, 39, says “finding his niche” has been beneficial for her son. She hopes he can forge a successful career by “thinking outside the box”.

It is common for people with autism to develop an intense focus on a particular subject.

Charlie’s specialist focus is superheroes, which he is using to his advantage.

This month, Charlie has been “inundated” with requests to hand out Easter Eggs at children’s parties.

Proud mum Jenny, from South Benfleet, said: “We’re incredibly proud of Charlie. He’s finding his own niche and learning to be independent.

Echo: Behind the mask - Charlie is proving popular and found his 'niche'.Behind the mask - Charlie is proving popular and found his 'niche'. (Image: Jenny Moore)

“I’ve watched his confidence really grow, chatting with children and their parents at parties. It’s a skillset he might not otherwise be developing.”

Charlie’s parents wanted to incorporate his special interests, to encourage him to be independent as he grows up.

Jenny added: “He might not be as successful as his peers through the traditional school system.

“We wanted to find something he’s passionate about and can be successful at. He’s also making children happy.”

Echo: Does whatever a spider can - Charlie in-costume as his alter-ego.Does whatever a spider can - Charlie in-costume as his alter-ego. (Image: Jenny Moore)

Charlie does his “market research”, checking out rival entertainers to ensure his service is competitively priced. On average, he charges £35 for a 30-minute party appearance.

“If he doesn’t get to achieve his dream of being a Hollywood Spider-Man, I think he could succeed as a children’s entertainer,” Jenny said.

“That’s how Rossi’s owner James Sinclair started out.”

Echo: Confident - Charlie is honing his interpersonal skills by meeting children and parents.Confident - Charlie is honing his interpersonal skills by meeting children and parents. (Image: Jenny Moore)

James Sinclair, the millionaire businessman who also owns Marsh Farm, began his career as a magician, quickly building his business into the empire he leads today.

Jenny hopes Charlie can replicate that success.

She added: “Charlie absolutely wants to make money and be successful. It’s very much about thinking outside the box. Traditional routes like further education aren’t on his agenda.”

For more information, visit Charlie's Facebook page.