Autistic adults and children in Greenwich have been given a welcome night out from an unlikely source – their local celebrity ex-gangster.

Dave Courtney, 58, whose own promotional website boasts he's been shot, stabbed and had his nose bitten off (before it was sewn back on).

But this Friday night (November 24) he will show his affectionate side by holding a disco at his Castle Camelot home in Plumstead to raise funds for the charity Autistic Inclusive Meets (AIM).

Dave, whose website tells of his friendship with The Krays and other London hardmen, said: “An awful lot of people I know have autistic children. If I’m going to help with a charity, I’m going to help one I know personally.

“It costs me f**k all to help them and I’m sympathetic to the cause. Parents with autistic children, I can see them pulling their hair out and if it costs me f**king nothing, so why not help?”

“It seems to help them out a lot and it’s nice to be nice. It’s a fascinating old house too. It’s very castle-y, very romantic, there’s sword rooms with a round table and a dungeon at the very bottom.”

The disco will take place from 7pm to 10pm, and will feature lowered music and lighting to help the autistic adults and children who will be attending.

It's the latest event in the calendar of AIM, which organises events and meet ups for families with autistic children to help them feel less isolated.

Charity boss Emma Dalmayne said: “We're delighted that Mr Dave Courtney is allowing us to hold our fundraising disco in his nightclub.

“Dave has accommodated us in every way down to the lowered music and lighting.

“Autism can be alienating due to the general public perception so the chance to bring individuals and families together in an inclusive environment is very important.”