AN INSPIRATIONAL boy from Basingstoke was given a very special ‘good luck’ message from a rock legend ahead of starting secondary school.

Owen Howkins returned to ITV’s This Morning with his dad Will and dog Haatchi to speak to hosts Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford about the next chapter of his life.

The 10-year-old won the nation’s hearts three years ago after sharing the incredible story of his friendship with his three-legged dog.

Owen suffers from an extremely rare illness called Schwartz-Jampel syndrome (SJS), which causes his muscles to be in a permanent state of tension.

His parents adopted Anatolian shepherd Haatchi, who had his leg amputated after being hit by a train when he was tied to a railway line by thugs.

The pair developed a remarkable friendship, and Owen told Eamonn and Ruth it was love at first sight, adding: “The first time I met Haatchi was when I was in my room in bed and when I woke up my dad brought Haatchi in and he laid his head on my lap.”

He added: “He saved my life. I used to be scared of strangers and now I’m more confident in going out.”

Owen also told the hosts how he has helped a fellow SJS sufferer in America.

The condition affects just two in a million people.

He told This Morning that he had offered advice to Giovanni, adding: “He got bullied at school so he’s going to a new school and I gave him advice and my advice was if anyone bullies you, tell the teacher. That was the exact words I said.”

And Owen was then offered some advice himself from none other than Queen guitarist Brain May.

The superstar told Owen via a recorded message: “It’s Brian May, your old pal, and it’s been a while but I just wanted to wish you very good luck in your new school. It’s an amazing transition to make, life changing, but I know it’s going to be great for you.

"I don’t quite know what you’re going to do with Haatchi but I hope he can come with you, but if not I’m sure you will find a good way to keep him happy too.

“God bless you. Good luck and have a great time. Growing up is painful but has to be done and you’re making a good job of it.”

Owen was then presented with a rucksack full of essential items to take with him to his new school.