A RAILWAY line running through East Lancashire is set to become Britain’s first autism-friendly route.

Conductors and station staff along the Blackburn to Manchester Victoria service have been specially trained to make journeys as stress-free as possible for passengers with the condition.

Ear defenders and sunglasses will be available on trains and at staffed stations, as part of a joint initiative between Northern Rail, Community Rail Lancashire and the National Autistic Society.

Two East Lancashire MPs, who went along for a trial run, have praised the scheme, which has seen activity packs devised for younger people with autism.

Graham Jones, Hyndburn MP, said: “The friends and families of people who may have challenging behaviours can make journeys knowing staff are specially trained to meet the needs of their passengers.”

Burnley MP Julie Cooper added: “I commend Northern Rail and Community Rail Lancashire for this excellent initiative that will allow autistic people to travel without stress.”

Rail officials and local families embarked on the inaugural trip. The resources will be available at the likes of Blackburn, Accrington and Burnley Manchester Road stations daily.

But special days, where all staff on board will be fully trained, are planned, with the first taking place tomorrow, and others on August 7, 12, 24 and 30. Promoters hope it will help to tackle social isolation.

Daisy Chapman-Chamberlain, project manager with Community Rail Lancashire, said: “Unexpected changes when taking public transport can be overwhelming.”

Daniel Cadey, a development manager at the National Autistic Society, said: “Train travel can be stressful for everyone.

“But for an autistic person, the noise, crowds and break from their usual routine can be overwhelming, leading them to avoid using trains all together.

“So we’re really pleased that Community Rail Lancashire has developed resources to help their autistic passengers prepare for journeys and that our charity will be training Northern’s staff understand the needs of their autistic customers.