A YOUNG filmmaker has won another prestigious international award for his work portraying the impact of Asperger’s Syndrome.

Nicholas Bayfield, 23, who has the condition himself, made his experimental film during his graduation year at Brighton Film School.

It has now won an award of merit from the Accolade Global Film Competition, beating other entries from around the world.

The Accolade recognizes film, television, videography and new media professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change.

The film was also recently showcased at the world famous Pinewood Studio as part of an event highlighting work by first-time film-makers.

Mr Bayfield, from Burgess Hill, said the film, called Asperger’s Syndrome, tells a story from an “authentic and sincere” point of view.

It has won other awards, being described by judges as having exceptional editing and an impactful strong message.

Mr Bayfield said: “Asperger’s Syndrome is something that I’ve had since a very young age and I wanted to express what people with it might be going through from a semi-autobiographical point of view.

“To not only have gained recognition at the Los Angeles Independent Film Festival Awards, Hollywood Boulevard Film Festival, Pinewood Studios, but also at the Accolade Global Film Competition has shown what a significant film it has been.

“It has also helped people to understand the condition better.”

Mr Bayfield said his condition meant he had a few ups and downs and social interaction is not easy for him.

He likes a rigid routine and likes to be organised and prepared.

However he says his attention to detail has helped him with his studies, making him more able to express the syndrome through the medium of film.

In winning an Accolade, Mr Bayfield joins the ranks of other high-profile winners of this internationally respected award.

These include the Oscar-winning production of The Lady in Number Six by Malcolm Clarke, Dave Bossert of Disney for his short documentary, The Tunes Behind The Toons, Hollywood industry veteran Ron Howard for When You Find Me and Highwire Films Australia for their popular ABC TV series twentysomething.

Accolade chairman Rick Prickett said: “The Accolade is not an easy award to win. Entries are received from around the world from powerhouse companies to remarkable new talent.

“The Accolade helps set the standard for craft and creativity. The judges were pleased with the exceptional high quality of entries and the goal of The Accolade is to help winners achieve the recognition they deserve.”