A NEW train which will be responsible for ferrying passengers between Blackpool and Manchester Airport has been officially named -- by a schoolboy!

Adam Cotton, 10, got the chance to name the Class 175 diesel multiple unit train after winning a competition organised by First North Western Trains. And he also bagged an afternoon out at Blackpool Pleasure Beach for himself and his classmates by choosing the winning name, The Valhalla, after the theme park's newest attraction.

The competition, held in conjunction with branches of Asda all over the North West, gave youngsters the chance to think of an interesting name that also reflects an integral aspect of the resort.

Adam, from Moston Fields Primary School, Manchester, travelled to Blackpool North Station to pose with a giant Viking monster at the "Name the Train" ceremony before heading for the Pleasure Beach with his pals.

Here's hoping the new train resembles Valhalla only in name - or its passengers would be in for a very scary ride!

Pictured here is Adam posing with a Valhalla monster and the newly-named Class 175 train at Blackpool North Station