Thomas the Tank Engine introduces first autistic character

Popular kids cartoon Thomas & Friends is about to get its first autistic character to join Thomas The Tank Engine.

Starting from 21 September, Bruce the Brake Car will appear alongside the show's other popular characters, and will be voiced by nine-year-old autistic actor Elliott Garcia.

Elliott, from Reading, was cast to play Bruce with the help of the National Autistic Society (NAS), and has described the exciting role as a "dream".

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Thomas the Tank Engine owners and toy giant Mattel noted that, although they know they 'could never encompass the real-life experience of every autistic person', they have 'carefully curated' the new character to make sure that it offers an 'accurate fictional representation of autism'.

For example, Bruno's engine will have a lantern to display his emotional state, and he has ear defenders that can puff steam when he struggles with loud noises.

He'll be known for his love of schedules and routine, is very detail-oriented and has a great sense of humour.

He also rolls in reverse at the end of the train, which will give him a unique perspective on the world as he helps the other engines by keeping heavy cargo steady with his strong brakes

Speaking to Press Association about landing the role of the new character, Elliott Garcia said: "I felt really excited and happy. He [Bruno] is funny, smart, and he's a very relaxed character."

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He continued: "It’s great that they are representing autistic characters because I watch the Thomas & Friends series and for there to be an autistic character makes me feel very happy and excited."

Describing the new character, Elliott added: "He can get really overwhelmed, he can get worried, and he uses comedy to get past situations.

"His ear defenders, I do relate to, because if there's a really loud noise, I can't cope. I have to think of new strategies, same as Bruno."

Commenting on the new character, NAS Head of Guidance, Volunteering and Campaigns Tom Purser said: "It’s important that everyone sees autistic characters on our screens because there are 160,000 school-age autistic children in the UK and they want to see their stories told, but it’s also important that non-autistic children get insight and understanding into what it can be like to be autistic."

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Bruno will make his debut on Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go! on Channel 5's Milkshake at 7.00am on 21 September.

The character’s introduction will also feature in the show’s YouTube series, music album, the Thomas & Friends Storytime podcast and the upcoming feature-length special Mystery Of Lookout Mountain.