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"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." An autistic boy from the UK has landed a “dream” role of voicing the first autistic character on the popular children’s series, Thomas & Friends. Elliot Garcia, 9, from Reading, England will play Bruno the Brake car, after he was cast with the help of the National Autistic Society (NAS). American toy giant Mattel said Bruno's characteristics have been created with "respected" autism groups, but they appreciated “one animated character could never encompass the real-life experience of every autistic person" The engine is detail-orientated, has a lantern to indicate his emotional state and enjoys schedules and routine. Elliot said "He can get really overwhelmed, he can get worried, and he uses comedy to get past situations” adding he is “really excited and happy” about winning the role. Tap the link in our bio to read why this has been described as a “real moment for autism". (📷 PA/Mattell) #BBCNews