Two treats turn up together for The Bus Boy of Bromsgrove

Buy photos » Edward now has his name on his favourite bus - the one numbered 8417.

A CATSHILL boy who loves to see and photograph National Express buses has had his name emblazoned on his favourite one.

Edward Littlehales, 11, who has autism, is known by many of the drivers who see him at bus stops along the number 9 route and know him as 'The Bus Boy of Bromsgrove'.

For his tenth birthday, National Express took Edward's favourite bus - the 8417 - over to his house to wish him many happy returns.

That particular one is based at the Pensnett depot and the team there wanted to reward his enthusiasm by naming his favourite bus after him.

Edward and his family were invited to the depot, where he was given a tour, met some of the drivers, viewed the control room and had afternoon tea. He also helped National Express fitter Gary Burgess place his name on the side of 'Edward's bus' and was presented with a National Express high-visibility vest so he can be spotted when he's spotting.

Depot manager Raj Chander said: "Edward is very special lad who is clearly extremely enthusiastic about his buses.

"My Pensnett team are delighted that Edward and his family allowed us to place his name on his favourite bus in his honour."

Regional news »