A BOY from Tilston enjoyed and exclusive behind the scenes tour of a state-of-the-artŠSiemens train maintenance facility in Manchester.

More than 100 members of the National Autistic Society (NAS), as well as other children and families living with autism, experienced an unforgettable tour as part of Manchester Science Festival.

Billy Doran, aged six, of Tilston, who has autism, was one of the lucky children to enjoy the tour along with his Dad Patrick and brother Harry.

He had the chance to see some of the 51-strong fleet of Class 185 diesel Desiro trains some of which were on jacks ready for cleaning, tried out the exciting on-site train simulator and sat in a real train cab.

Mark Lever, Chief Executive of the NAS, said: “The railways are of great interest to many people living with autism, so we are delighted that people were given this rare opportunity for a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of a real train care depot.”

Pete Redding, Fleet Manager for the Siemens trains at Ardwick, said: “We were very impressed by the level of knowledge shown by many of our visitors.ŠThe day was a great success.”