LUCKY train lovers were invited down to Bank Quay station for a special tour and a chance to announce the approaching trains.

For half-term, Virgin Trains held a competition asking to hear children’s train stories, giving winners the opportunity to visit the station.

Six-year-old Benjamin Nogueira, from Great Sankey, is a train enthusiast - his favourite being the Virgin Pendolino.

Benjamin said: “I build train tracks with my dad at home and I come with my mum to the station all the time to watch the trains.”

The Barrow Hall Primary School pupil was allowed to sit in the driver’s seat and even press the start button.

After welcoming passengers to Bank Quay station on the tannoy, Benjamin was then given the big responsibility of announcing an incoming Virgin train.

Also invited down were sisters Jasmine and Daisy Knibb from Fairfield.

Jasmine, aged four, has always wanted to go on a train to London and told Virgin Trains that she loves adventures and maps.

Their mum Jo said: “They loved the day - Daisy announced the train approaching and Jasmine announced the station. They really enjoyed the tour and playing customer services too!”