A Watford father has battled against the clock in an attempt to visit all 20 Premier League football stadiums in just 36 hours.

Autism campaigner Maz Ataie, ambassador for the National Autistic Society, embarked on his epic 1,000 mile mission to raise awareness of autism and the difficulties that children with the lifelong developmental disability can face getting involved in grassroots football.

The 40-year-old was inspired to participate in the challenge by his eight-year-old son Jake, who has Asperger syndrome, a form of autism, and loves football.

Joined by friends Ed Jones, Dave Leeks, and Chris Patson, Mr Ataie kicked off his sporting challenge at 8am on Friday morning at Loftus Road, home of QPR FC.

After visiting three other London clubs, the team headed over to Swansea before racing off to the Midlands and the North East, ending the first day of the tour at St James’ Park in Newcastle.

An early start on Saturday saw a visit to clubs in the North West, including visits to Old Trafford and Anfield.

Throughout the tour, clubs donated items including signed shirts and footballs that Mr Ataie will auction off later this year for The National Autistic Society.

Mr Ataie and his friends smashed their target by three hours, ending their tour at Tottenham Hotspur’s ground White Hart Lane, where they had a VIP tour of the stadium.

The Lower Tail resident said: "So many children love to play and watch football. Unfortunately kids with autism and other disabilities often don’t have the chance to get involved as teams find meeting their needs a challenge.

"The Premier League tour was all about raising awareness and encouraging football clubs to offer coaching at a grassroots level, so that all children are able to experience the pleasure and camaraderie that the beautiful game can bring.

"We received fantastic support from the clubs and managed to bag some brilliant goodies along the way, including a football signed by the Chelsea team. Hopefully we’ll be able to auction them off and raise loads of money for The National Autistic Society, who help people with autism live the life that they choose."

Rebecca Bohling, Head of Supporter Fundraising at The National Autistic Society, said: "Maz, Chris, Dave and Ed’s epic race against the clock is a sensational achievement. We’re so grateful for their efforts which have not only raised vital funds to support the work we do, but also shined a light on the need to support the thousands of children with autism across the UK who want to get involved in sport."

To donate to Mr Ataie’s Premier League Challenge, visit http://www.justgiving.com/Maz-Ataie40